If you’re in the midst of planning a vacation that will take you across the globe, there’s one thing you should always remember: get vaccinated. If you want to visit exotic locations, it’s important that you immunize yourself from rare diseases that could end up being life-threatening.
Outbreaks Are on the Rise
Unfortunately, the rise of the anti-vaccination movement has resulted in outbreaks of diseases that were once practically extinct. Measles are a good example, and at the beginning of 2019, Contagion Live [1] reported that a public health emergency was declared in Clark County, Washington due to an outbreak of this highly contagious disease. CDC [2] data backs this up with a registered 349 cases in 26 states during 2019, including 17 total outbreaks in the US.
Worst of all, people are skipping once-required vaccines across the world. The World Health Organization [3] reports that people opt out of vaccinations and create huge potential problems for public health. If you’re not vaccinated in the US, you could pick up measles and bring them back home and endanger others. Over 80 US citizens did so in 2018. [4]
The 3 Types of Travel Vaccines
Before traveling abroad, it’s always best to make sure you’re up to date with your vaccinations or missing important shots. According to the CDC, [5] vaccines are split into three different categories if you’re a tourist:
1. Recommended Vaccines
The CDC has a set of recommended vaccines for those traveling outside the US, even if the countries you’re visiting don’t mandate them. Plan ahead and consider CDC guidelines because some vaccines need time before they are considered effective.
2. Required Vaccines
Tourists going to specific countries sometimes need to get the required vaccines if they want to be granted entry. Notable examples are shots for yellow fever.
3. Routine Vaccines
Anyone living in the US should get these vaccines that are usually given during childhood. You can also take shots for adults such as tetanus boosters and flu vaccines.
What Travel Vaccines Should I Get?
First of all, you should check with your doctor whether you need boosters or new vaccines for your chosen destination. Then, consider your activities and where you’ll be sleeping – city vs. a tent in the outdoors will make a difference. Some countries still haven’t eradicated common diseases, so the CDC suggests that you keep up to date with routine shots. Furthermore, it’s advisable to use medications for things like malaria.
According to The Professional Hobo, [7] you should consult your doctor to see whether you should get the following vaccines for tourists:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Polio
- Typhoid
- Cholera
- Meningitis
- TDaP (Diphtheria, Pertussis,Tetanus)
- MMR (Measles, Rubella, Mumps)
- Japanese Encephalitis
How to Save Money on Travel Vaccinations?
Planning ahead is important if you need any renewals, boosters, or completely new vaccines. Book a doctor’s appointment or go to a local clinic that can take care of you. Travel clinics are also an option. However, you should always do it as early as possible so that they’re effective.
Some vaccinations are costly, while others are covered by your insurance, but you can contact your provider to see if they’ll cover everything. You can also save money by buying vaccines yourself or through travel clinic discounts.
[1] https://www.contagionlive.com/news/travel-associated-measles-outbreaks-on-the-rise-in-us
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/measles/cases-outbreaks.html
[3] https://www.contagionlive.com/news/infectious-diseases-dominate-whos-list-of-2019-health-threats
[4] https://www.contagionlive.com/news/travel-associated-measles-outbreaks-on-the-rise-in-us
[5] https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-vaccines
[6] https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-vaccines
[7] https://www.theprofessionalhobo.com/travel-vaccinations-yes-or-no/