As you begin to plan your vacation, you may be considering international
travel! Depending on your destination, you may need to make sure you are
up to date on all of your vaccinations, especially if you are traveling
to rural areas or developing countries. In some cases, you may need to
get specific vaccinations or bring along medicine to help combat any illness
you may acquire while in the country. Don’t leave your health to
chance! Make vaccinations a priority and enjoy peace of mind while you’re
on vacation.
Travel Risks
When unvaccinated U.S. residents travel, there is a real possibility of
them contracting some sort of disease (such as the measles) and bringingTravel
comes with inherent risks; however, certain destinations carry more risks
than others. Before you travel, take a look at potential risks you might
face and try to plan accordingly.
Consider the following when determining your risks while travelling:
- Your travel destination
- Your travel activities
- Your current health
- Your vaccination history
While the U.S. doesn’t deal with many diseases (like measles or polio),
certain countries still do. Crowded events or close quarters could spread
serious diseases to you or your travel partners while overseas. Check
with your doctor or other medical professional to see what vaccines are
recommended for your destination.
Plan Vaccinations Ahead of Time
Don’t procrastinate your vaccinations. You may need some time to
get your vaccine records together or have to wait to get vaccinated. Travel
clinics will have the vaccines you need if your healthcare professional
doesn’t stock them.
Follow these tips for safe travels:
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Plan: Four to six weeks before you travel internationally, visit your healthcare
professional. A vaccine series may take this long for your body to build
up immunity. Take a look at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s
vaccine recommendations for guidance.
-
Prepare: Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare professional about recommended
vaccines and make sure you are up to date on everything before you travel.
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Proof: Some countries require proof of a yellow fever vaccine. It is imperative
that you show proof that you obtained this vaccine at least 10 days before
travel. You will need a stamped vaccine certificate from a registered provider.
A little planning and preparation can make a world of difference in your
travels. Not only will you be spared the stress of running around last
minute, but you will also be better prepared for healthy, safe travels.
Don’t Just Depend on Vaccinations – Travel Smart
Although you may be well-prepared for your travels and have all the proper
vaccinations, it is still a good idea to protect yourself from bacteria
and germs as much as possible.
Take a look at ways to avoid disease:
- Make smart eating and drinking choices
- Avoid bug bites
- Wash your hands often or use sanitizer
- Don’t touch animals (birds, dogs, or monkeys especially)
Check with your health care provider for more tips on how to stay healthy
while traveling. Vaccinations are just one of the many steps you may need
to take to ensure you remain healthy throughout your trip. With enough
planning and preparation, you can relax and enjoy your travels, wherever
they may take you!
At Anaheim Regional Medical Center, we are dedicated to your health and
wellness. If you have questions about travel vaccinations or safety precautions
while traveling, don’t hesitate to contact one of our experienced
health care providers. We can provide an individualized health plan, complete
with vaccine recommendations, so that you can safely pursue your travels
this summer.
Contact us today for more information about our healthcare programs and medical providers.
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.