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Health and Safety Information

Sexual Behavior

The most effective means of preventing most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is by being informed. STDs such as gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and hepatitis B continue to pose serious health risks for travelers in virtually every country. The HIV virus, which is responsible for AIDS, is not only transmitted sexually but also through contaminated hypodermic needles and infected blood supplies.

Since some forms of contraception may be more difficult to get abroad, take what you need with you! If you have any questions or need information while abroad, contact your Faculty Program Leader.

Always use a condom! Both men and women should carry their own condoms. It is a good idea to bring latex condoms from the U.S. since brands in other countries may not be as reliable.

If you need more information contact the Centers for Disease Control, at http://www.cdc.gov, or the UC Davis Health Education Center via phone at (530) 752-9652.

For more information regarding safe sex, please visit the UC Davis Health Center webpage at http://healthcenter.ucdavis.edu/topics/contraception/sti.html.