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Health And Safety Issues While Volunteering in Nepal
If you've made the decision to volunteer in Nepal, you might be wondering "will I be safe?" Volunteering in Nepal can be incredibly exciting, but it can also be dangerous if you don't take the right precautions. Any time you travel Nepal, you are taken out of your comfort zone and placed in a situation where you may not be familiar with the laws or protocol in the event of something happening. While there is a small chance that something bad will happen to you, there are certain things you should do in order to make sure you stay safe while you're in Nepal.
What Happens If I Get Sick?
It's not uncommon for your immune system to be a bit more vulnerable when traveling. The stress of traveling, especially internationally, can take a toll on your health. You'll also be exposed to a lot of different germs and bacteria while traveling, making it a possibility that you may get sick. During your time living in Nepal, you'll also be exposed to many things in your new environment (new drinking water, new bugs/insects, new climate, etc.) that you will need to be aware of. Although getting sick can be a big annoyance when you are volunteering, you should accept it as a possibility, and do all that you can to avoid getting very sick.
Luckily, HHFN operates programs near a big city, which means a hospital (if needed) won't be far away. Ask us for the phone numbers and addresses of the nearest hospitals or recommended doctors. Some cities have medical clinics or centers that cater to tourists or foreigners. In general, the best way to handle getting sick in Nepal is to be prepared. If you normally take medication, make sure you bring enough with you. If you know you might need certain medical assistance, make sure you speak to us so that you are stationed near a medical facility or center where you can get what you need. If you are volunteering in a remote area, plan ahead to make sure you have what you need.
Note: HHFN Team along with Host family will be providing 24hrs Support to you. We have doctors in our team who will make sure of good health through out the volunteering period.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is very important for your safety. You can research online to find the best option for you, but generally you can find very reasonable prices. Travel insurance covers you in case of an emergency, with offers like medical and evacuation coverage, 24-hour assistance, coverage on damage to electronics, coverage on adventure activities, and more. You can often tailor your travel insurance to cover exactly what you will need in a certain country. For volunteers abroad, it is essential for safety.