- During a trip, the last thing you want to have is an illness
- Immunizations are one of the best ways to protect yourself from serious diseases, many of which can be life threatening
- The purpose of a vaccine is to stimulate the body's defense system in order to prepare it for a future encounter with an infectious disease
What immunizations do I need?
- There are three types of immunizations: Routine, Required, and Recommended:1
| Routine Immunizations |
Required Immunizations |
Recommended Immunizations |
| All adults should update these routine immunizations every 10 years, even if they do not plan to travel: |
Some countries will require proof of these immunizations before entry: |
Depending on your itinerary, planned activities, and current health status, your health-care professional may recommend one or more of these immunizations: |
| > Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis |
> Yellow fever
> Meningococcal |
> Poliomyelitis
> Influenza
> Hepatitis A
> Hepatitis B
> Typhoid
> Japanese encephalitis
> Meningococcal
> Rabies
> Measles, mumps,
and rubella
> Yellow fever
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Health tip
Certain health conditions can dramatically increase a traveler's risk. If you are pregnant or have a chronic medical condition (such as allergies, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, and so on) be sure to consult a health-care professional prior to departure.
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If traveling with children, additional vaccines may be required for them. Consult your pediatrician or travel physician.
Do I need an immunization certificate for international travel?
If you are traveling to (or transitting through) certain countries in Africa or South America, you may require a certificate of vaccination against yellow fever. Your vaccination can be administered only in a clinic that has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) to administer yellow fever vaccine. Most travel clinics provide yellow fever vaccine, but if yours does not, you may be referred to another clinic that has WHO approval.2
Consult your local travel clinic for advice on planning a safe and healthy trip.
