Health & Safety in Italy

The U.S. Department of State Italy  Travel Advisory describes the health and safety situation in different parts of Italy.

Consult your physician about your health in light of your travel plans and review your vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information on recommended vaccinations for travel to Italy at CDC Health Information for Travelers to Italy.

If you get sick, please let your trip leader or CGEE staff know right away. This will help to pinpoint problems with food and water. They can arrange for a COVID-19 test or a visit to a doctor or medical clinic if necessary.

Possible Ailments in Italy

• Traveler’s Diarrhea: Just the change in food, water, and climate can lead to an upset stomach. If you get diarrhea, treat it with Pepto-Bismol and drink lots of water. When you are ready to eat again, start with rice, bread, crackers, and broth (bring bouillon cubes or dry soup). Imodium (Loperamide is the generic equivalent) is a stronger medication to be used only when absolutely necessary. It does not cure diarrhea but slows down the digestive system, which can lead to other problems. Herbal teas such as ginger root, raspberry, comfrey, and peppermint are thought to aid in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea. Feel free to bring some tea bags with you.

Additional Health, Safety, and Security Information for All Locations