If you’re planning on travelling to a foreign country, it’s essential to make sure that you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations. Each country has different health risks, and some vaccines are required to enter certain countries. This blog post will discuss the most common vaccines needed for international travel. We’ll also provide information about the London Travel Clinic, where you can get all of your vaccinations before heading overseas!
What Are Some Common Vaccines?
Polio vaccination
One of the most common vaccines that people need to travel abroad is the Polio Vaccine. Polio is a disease that can cause paralysis, and it’s transmitted through food or water contaminated by human waste. It is recommended to get this vaccination at least four weeks before going on your trip, so be sure to schedule an appointment as soon as you know where you’re going!
Yellow fever vaccination
The yellow fever vaccine is a single dose that provides lifelong protection. There’s no need to get another shot for most people unless they travel internationally and enter a country with an infection rate higher than what our bodies are used to. The vaccine must be administered at least ten days before you depart, you must have a yellow fever vaccination.
Rabies vaccination
Rabies is a viral disease that can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, such as dogs or bats. The general recommendation is to get vaccinated for rabies if you’re travelling to areas with a high risk of contracting this virus; however, it’s not essential unless your trip includes activities like camping in remote forests with minimal access to medical care.
Suppose you’ve been bitten, licked or scratched by an animal in a country where rabies is present. In that case, it may be necessary to receive further vaccine doses (with or without the special anti-rabies injection) as emergency treatment.
Hepatitis A vaccination:
You should get the hepatitis A vaccine if you plan to travel to countries with poor sanitation and hygiene levels. Ask your GP, pharmacy or travel clinic for more information about this recommendation!
The hepatitis A vaccination is usually given as a single injection with subsequent doses 6-12 months later. Two vaccinations will protect you for at least 20 years! Both doses should be administered at least two weeks in advance of your departure.
Hepatitis B vaccination
Vaccination against hepatitis B is recommended for those at risk if they are travelling in areas where the virus commonly occurs, especially those involving sex or taking drugs. Blood and other body fluids are responsible for the transmission of hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccines are usually given in three injections. The duration of protection varies depending on how quickly you need it.
Cholera vaccination
Vaccinating against cholera isn’t typically necessary for most travellers. Still, it may be recommended in some cases if you’re working with vulnerable populations or have limited access to medical services.
This includes aid workers following natural disasters and volunteers assisting at refugee camps with a high risk of infection because these individuals’ jobs require close contact (face-to-face).
The vaccine is usually given in 2 equal doses, but children aged 2-6 need a third dose one month after their second. You should make sure you have this final shot at least seven days before your travel date – it’s essential!
The important thing about this vaccine is that you take the correct steps. This will help prevent any missed doses or weakness from developing after they’ve been vaccinated, which could increase the risk for illness in travelled regions where vaccines may not be available.
Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination
Ensure that you and your children are up-to-date with routine vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine, before travelling. If not vaccinated or immune already, it’s essential to ask about them when purchasing tickets for abroad as some countries may require evidence of this to enter their country!
The first dose of the MMR vaccine is given when a child reaches 12 to 13 months old, and another one before they start school if necessary. Ideally, you should have this final injection at least two weeks before leaving for your trip abroad or other Interesting places!
When Should you Seek Further Assistance?
If you are in any of the following categories, speak to your doctor about vaccines:
- You’re Expecting
- You’re breastfeeding
- You have a weakened immune system.
- Do you have any food allergies
- You are overweight.
- You have received a blood transfusion in the last 4 weeks
- You have had another vaccine within 4 weeks
Which Countries Require Vaccination?
Below we have compiled a list of the areas or countries in which vaccinations are required.
Should You Get Vaccinated?
Don’t forget to schedule appointments for essential vaccines as you plan your upcoming international trip? Depending on the region of the world you are travelling to, different immunisations may be necessary to stay healthy while abroad. For more advice on vaccinations, Broadgate GP is here to help. Contact us today!
