The Office of International Health, Safety and Security continually monitors worldwide travel precautions and communicates relevant alerts and related information to current and future MU students planning to participate in study abroad or university-related international travel programs.
The U.S. Department of State travel advisory system issues every country a risk level, ranging from one (exercise normal precautions) to four (do not travel). Additionally, certain regions within a country may have a different level than the country as a whole. Advisories at level two or above will contain clear reasons for the level assigned using established risk indicators and specific advice for travelers.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel notices are designed to inform travelers about current health issues related to specific destinations. These issues may arise from disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, natural disasters or other conditions that may affect travelers’ health. For travel alerts (level two), travelers should follow the recommended enhanced precautions for the destination. Travel alerts are generally issued when there is an increased risk in defined settings or associated with specific risk factors; certain high-risk populations may wish to delay travel to these destinations. For travel warnings (level three), all non-essential travel to the destination should be avoided because there is a high risk to all travelers.
To minimize health, safety and security risks, students planning to participate in study abroad or university-related international travel and university divisions sponsoring educational activities in countries or regions with the following alert levels must request approval from the university’s Student Travel Abroad Review Committee.
- Department of State travel advisory at level three (reconsider travel) or level four (do not travel)
- CDC travel warning (level three)