Tips For Getting Immunized For International Travel
Traveling the globe and seeing the world is a passion for many people. While traveling is a wonderful experience, adults need to be aware of dangerous diseases that they might be at risk for in some destinations. One of the keys to safe world travels is to be properly immunized prior to your departure. If you're planning a trip to a region where you might potentially be exposed to dangerous diseases, use the following tips:
Understand the Risks
Most American adults were immunized for a number of diseases as children, and then receive booster immunizations as an adult. But many of the standard immunizations recommended in the U.S. do not protect from diseases that are present in other regions. Some of the common diseases that most adults are not vaccinated against include yellow fever, typhoid fever, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningococcal disease, and Japanese encephalitis.
Make sure you research the area where you are traveling and understand what the risks are. It is also important to know if an immunization is recommended or required in a region. Some countries require travelers to present documentation proving that they have been vaccinated for yellow fever become they can enter the country.
Make an Appointment with Your Doctor Early
As soon as you book your trip, it is important to make an appointment with either your primary care physician or a doctor who specializes in international travel. Some immunizations require an initial shot followed by a few booster shots, so you need to make sure that you have enough time to complete a series of vaccination before your trip.
Your doctor will discuss the health risks of traveling to the area and make recommendations on which immunizations you should have. The types of immunizations you'll need will depend on your style of travel. A business person taking a trip to southeast Asia and staying in a 5-star hotel may not need as many immunizations as a backpacker who will be exploring rural areas and forests.
Watch for Side Effects
In most cases, immunizations given before traveling internationally have very minimal side effects. One of the more common side effects is discomfort or soreness in the area where the shot was given. However, it is important to pay attention and contact your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Some immunizations can cause a mild fever which should subside within several hours. If you become very ill after being immunized, make an appointment to see a doctor, such as at Snowy Range Health Center, promptly.
