Immunization Considerations When Traveling AbroadWhat vaccinations do I need to have before traveling abroad? Once you decide that your travel plans will take you beyond the US borders, it’s wise to make an appointment with your physician or a travel medicine clinic to discuss your immunization needs. Whether or not you will need particular vaccines will depend on several factors, including: • Your risk of exposure to diseases in the countries to be visited
• Your age, current health status, and vaccination history
• The presence of additional individual risk factors, such as if you are pregnant, have pre-existing cardiovascular disease, or have HIV or AIDS
• Reactions to previous vaccine doses and your allergy history
• The risk of infecting others
• Length of visit
Some vaccinations are simply recommended while others are required if traveling to specific countries. The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all travelers be up-to-date with the routine schedule of childhood vaccinations and booster shots. These routine vaccines include: • Diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis (DTP)
• Hepatitis B (HBV)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
• Measles/mumps/rubella (MMR)
• Poliomyelitis
Examples of mandatory vaccines include yellow fever – if traveling to central and south America or Africa – and meningococcal disease –which is required by Saudi Arabia for pilgrims visiting Mecca annually [Hajj] or at any time [Umrah] and/or Medina. Other vaccines, for example, to protect against rabies or typhoid fever, may be recommended depending on your travel itinerary. Ask your doctor about your specific needs.
What is a travel medicine clinic?
A travel medicine clinic is an office staffed by doctors and nurses who have a special interest or special training in travel and tropical medicine. The types of services offered at travel clinics can vary widely, but may include the provision of:
• pre-travel consultations and vaccinations
• official vaccine certificate documentation
• any necessary prescriptions
• post-travel medical consultations, evaluation and care
• onsite diagnostic laboratory services
The International Society of Travel Medicine and the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene provide travel clinic directories at their web sites, respectively at: http://www.istm.org/ and http://www.astmh.org/. Seeking out specialist assistance is highly recommended given the rapidly changing nature of infectious concerns and recommendations when traveling to international destinations. Moreover, specialized education can enhance the likelihood of event-free travel.
Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition
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