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You will also have to heighten your awareness of what is
happening around you. As a foreigner in a developing country
you will be more susceptible to crime than in your home country.
H.Y.C.C. suggests that you take out adequate insurance for
your study period prior to your departure. Click
here for more information about insurance
Concerning health issues, many visitors to China are worried
about Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and H5N1 Avian
Influenza (commonly known as Asian Bird Flu). The most useful
and reliable information we can provide you with are the facts
as described by the World Health Organization.
H5N1
influenza is a more recent threat. The W.H.O. does not recommend
any restrictions on travel to any areas affected by H5N1 avian
influenza. However it advises travellers to avoid contact
with high-risk environments in affected countries, for instance
live poultry markets. For
the full November 2005 W.H.O. recommendations and related
links please click here
This
section about Frequently Asked Questions is also very informative
Northeastern China has a cold, dry climate and there is no
risk of tropical diseases.
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Hygiene and health go hand in hand. Be sure to wash
regularly and request that dishes in restaurants be
re-cleaned if you are not satisfied. Clean your apartment
/ dormitory room regularly and ensure that food you
prepare is fresh. Drinking the tapwater in China is
not recommended. Bottled water is extremely cheap and
widely available.
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The final major health risk is from sexually transmitted diseases.
Official figures suggest that the risk of STD infection in China
is relatively low, however anecdota; evidence suggests this
is not necessarily accurate. Bringing contraception from your
home country is strongly recommended.
Concerning safety, China is not a dangerous country and incidents
involving foreigners are rare. However pickpocketing is rife.
When you go out do not take your passport (carrying a copy
is recommended) or credit cards. If you have to carry a large
sum of money split it between pockets in different articles
of clothing. Be especially vigilant in buses, trains, bars
and discos.
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