Traveling Abroad? Make Sure the Travel “Bug” Is the Only One You Return With

International travel is an exotic crash course in human relations. There is simply no substitute for immersing one’s self in different cultures, being surrounded by new and dynamic people, food, music and art.

For most bitten by the travel “bug,” a chronic case of wanderlust may be the only condition contracted for which there are few, if any, negative side effects. The same cannot be said for a host of other maladies that thrive beyond our borders. Knowing the required and recommended vaccinations against these will help ensure that you are in control of the “souvenirs” you acquire on your adventures.

Where to Start

First and foremost, you will want to ensure that you are up to date on all of your routine vaccinations. For most, this is a non-issue, but if you’re not entirely sure, or if you are traveling with children, it might be a good idea to schedule some time with your doctor. Discuss your travel plans as well as any additional health concerns you may have. It is important to note that if you are immune-compromised in any way, some vaccines may not be appropriate or safe. Your doctor can help you make those determinations.

Required Vaccinations

Many countries require visitors to be immunized against certain diseases before being granted entry. Required vaccinations vary on a country-by-country basis and depend more on where you are coming from than where you are going. In other words, travelers from countries with a known risk for certain diseases will have a higher level of scrutiny placed on entry. Since you are reading this, you are likely originating your trip from the United States, so you will find very few countries impose any required vaccinations. If your trip includes stays in multiple countries, especially those that pose a higher risk of contracting Yellow Fever, you may be subject to required vaccination mandates, and must present an International Immunization Certificate before being granted entry to your next destination. You can find more information here: http://www.who.int/ihr/ports_airports/icvp/en/

Recommended Vaccinations 

Because water quality varies from country to country, as does the number of food-borne pathogens one might encounter, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a country-specific list of recommended vaccinations depending on your planned destination(s). These recommendations are geared toward the prevention of contracting a disease or parasite that may be prevalent in a given country. Additional, recommended vaccines may include Typhoid and Hepatitis A, which are both readily spread through contaminated food and water. Mosquitoes can carry Malaria and Japanese Encephalitis in certain parts of the world as well and, depending on where you plan to go and at what time of year, additional precautions may be recommended. You can find more information here: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/.

The Onus is On the Traveler

Ultimately, it is up to you to protect yourself from a bevy of bacteria and varying viruses that exist around the world. Careful research on the water and food quality in the country or countries you plan on visiting as well as other prevalent contagions will help you to take necessary precautions when enjoying other cultures. Following the mandates and recommendations of the CDC will not only allow unfettered entry to your destination, but also prevent any complications upon your return to the United States. Most importantly, by avoiding illness, you will truly be able to enjoy all that your travels have to offer.

By: Denise D.