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Millions of Americans travel to other countries each year. Seeing a new culture is great. But sometimes it can mean being exposed to some diseases, too. So before you pack your bags, check your vaccinations.
Depending on where you’re headed, you may not need new vaccinations. Going to places like Canada and many countries in Europe, you’ll face the same risks there that you do in the US. But, if you’re going to developing countries, especially rural areas, you may need to get some other shots.
Take the time to check out countries that you plan to visit. Learn what vaccines you might need to get before you go.
Travel prepared
Before you leave, make sure all your normal vaccines are up-to-date. You should have protection against:
Depending on where you’re going, you may need other vaccines. These include vaccines for:
Children and adults with medical conditions may need other vaccines.
Travelers need to watch out for diseases like malaria and cholera. There is no vaccine for malaria, but there are drugs you can take. There is a cholera vaccine, but doctors don’t usually recommend it. So you’ll need to take different steps to prevent cholera. These include avoiding contaminated food and water.
Find out if the country you’re visiting has required vaccines. When people get vaccines before traveling, they’re often thinking of their own safety. But vaccines also protect the people around you. Some nations require that visitors have vaccinations. It’s a way of keeping out disease. If you don’t have proof you’ve had your shots, you may not be allowed in.
Many state and local health departments in the US give vaccines to travelers. The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene has a travel clinic directory to help find the clinic closest to you. See Vaccines Resources for more information.
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