What are the Best Vaccines to Have When Traveling Internationally

When you are planning to travel, so many things run through your mind between planning the trip (getting there and back) and what activities you might want to do depending on where you are traveling too. One thing that can easily slip your mind but is imperative is Vaccines. It is always a good idea to visit your doctor before traveling to see what vaccines you should have or any precautions you should take before traveling. Vaccines are essential to preventing diseases from spreading within communities and families. There are more vaccines than others that are very important to consider having before traveling internationally. 

 

What are Vaccines?

Vaccines are diseases and illnesses that are introduced into your body and immune system without any harmful components of the disease. They are introduced into your body so that your immune system can gain immunity to the disease. That way when you come across the real disease, your body knows what it needs to do to fight off the disease.  Vaccines are crucial as they help protect you against harmful diseases especially when you are traveling. Below are the more popular vaccines you should have before you  travel.

 

What Vaccines Should you Have for Travel?

COVID-19 

Ever since the global pandemic in 2020, it is never a bad idea to have this vaccine. Some cases of COVID-19 can have serious complications depending how severe your symptoms are. Symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, and the loss of taste or smell. With COVID-19 there are different types of vaccines you can take, including the mRNA vaccine, a Protein Subunit, or the viral vector vaccine. 

Hepatitis A 

Hepatitis A is a disease that is found in blood and stool and can sometimes lead to liver disease. The symptoms can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. People who travel are more at risk, especially if you travel in backcountry areas or eat and drink in dirty and unsanitary places. 

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a disease that causes the yellow fever virus which can lead to serious complications such as bleeding, shock, and organ failure. The disease is spread by mosquitoes which is why it is really important to make sure if you are traveling to a contaminated area, you make sure to have this vaccine. The symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, backache and muscle aches. Some places require you to have the yellow fever vaccine, so it’s important to check where you are going and if you are required to have this vaccine. 

 

 

Conclusion

Whether you are traveling far or staying close to home, it is always important to connect with your doctor and stay up to date with recommended vaccines. Vaccines are important in stopping the spread of diseases and lowers the risk of contracting deadly diseases. If you are ever unsure, you can reach out to your physician or visit our website to book your appointment consultation.