Routine Vaccinations You Need To Travel

It’s a big world out there with so much to see and do, so it’s no surprise as to why every day so many pack their bags in an effort to do some traveling and find new adventures. However, with heading off to a faraway destination comes the possibility of having to get certain vaccinations. There are risks associated with visiting certain spots around the globe, and the vaccinations are meant to protect you as well as all those you come in contact with while you’re away and upon your return. If you’re thinking of taking a trip, the following are just a few routine vaccinations you may need if you want to travel.

Meningococcal Vaccine
The bacteria, Neisseria meningitidis, is one that causes Meningococcal Disease, and it’s spread via close contact such as kissing, coughing, or by living in close proximity to someone who is infected. It could lead to a blood infection or meningitis which is an inflammation of the spinal cord and brain linings. Just some of the symptoms include a high fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and vomiting. High rates of this disease are found in parts of Africa, so if you’re traveling to the continent and you have yet to get your Meningococcal vaccine, it’s best if you do.

Tdap Vaccine
The Tdap vaccine actually stands for the Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis vaccine. You may recognize Pertussis and Tetanus by their more commonly known names of whooping cough and lockjaw, respectively, while diphtheria is a bacterial infection that’s found in the throat and nose. You can get tetanus via some type of scratch or cut while pertussis and diphtheria are transmitted from a person’s secretions.

Flu Vaccine
Chances are you’re (unfortunately) familiar with the flu and its symptoms that include fatigue, chills, sore throat, cough, a runny nose, and an overall miserable feeling. You can usually find it spreading around the U.S. during the colder months with December to March typically being the peak time. Take note that protection doesn’t kick in until about two weeks after getting the flu vaccine. While it lasts throughout the most current flu season, if you’re traveling and want to get the shot, you should get it at least a couple of weeks before you depart. It’s recommended to get the flu vaccine every year.

Those who are young, pregnant, already sick, or elderly are especially at risk of danger if they contract a disease. Not everyone is able to get every vaccine, so it’s a must to give a very detailed medical history to your doctor so they can make sure that it’s safe for you to get the vaccine you want especially before you travel. The earlier you make an appointment and discuss your travel plans with your doctor, the better, so you can ensure that everything is in place before you leave and that it’s safe for you to travel to your desired location. While a conversation with your doctor is certainly necessary, it could also be advantageous to do research on your own about what vaccines you may need to travel to where you’re going and how they could affect you.