Travel vaccines: what you need to know before your next trip

Why travel vaccines are important

Travel vaccines are important for several reasons.

Here are just a few:

• Protect against serious diseases. Many diseases that travelers can be exposed to are serious and potentially life-threatening. Vaccines can help protect against these diseases and keep travelers safe.
• Prevent the spread of disease. Travelers who are vaccinated are less likely to contract and spread infectious diseases, which can also help protect local populations.
• Required by some countries. Certain destinations require travelers to have particular vaccinations before entering.
• Peace of mind. Knowing that you're protected against potentially serious diseases will allow you to enjoy your trip without worrying about getting sick.

Travel vaccines

There are a few travel vaccines recommended or required for travelers, depending on your destination as well as other factors.

Learn about some of the travel vaccines and medications we offer at CityMD:

• Hepatitis A. This vaccine is recommended for most travelers who are visiting developing countries, as Hepatitis A spreads through contaminated food and water.
• Typhoid. This vaccine is recommended for travelers going to areas with poor sanitation. Unfortunately, there’s a shortage of this vaccine. CityMD physicians can provide a prescription for the oral version of this vaccine, but it may be difficult to find a pharmacy that has it in stock.
• Malaria. CityMD offers preventative or prophylaxis medications for malaria if you are traveling to a high-risk area.

There are many other travel vaccines such as yellow fever and meningococcal that you may need. Your CityMD provider can help you decide what shots you may need based on your destination, itinerary, age, and health status.

How do travel vaccines work?

Vaccines stimulate the body's immune system to recognize and fight off disease. They expose the body to a weak or inactive version of the disease-causing organism, allowing the immune system to respond without causing the actual disease.

If you’re later exposed to the disease, your immune system will recognize it and be able to mount a quick and effective response.

Getting vaccinated

If you're planning a trip and need travel vaccines from CityMD, there are a few things you should know.

• Plan ahead. Some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks or months. It’s important to think about what you may need far in advance, so you have time to get vaccinated before your trip.
• Find a travel medicine specialist. Not all doctors are familiar with travel medicine, so it's important to find a provider who can guide you on which vaccines you need and provide them if necessary. Our CityMD providers can advise you on vaccine administration.
• Bring your vaccination record. If you've already received some travel vaccines in the past, be sure to take a copy of your records with you to the urgent care visit.
• Be prepared for side effects. Like all immunizations, travel vaccines can cause side effects. Common side effects include soreness or redness at the injection site, fever, headache, and muscle aches. But don’t worry, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days.

Urgent care vaccinations at CityMD

Traveling can be an incredible experience, but you’ll need to take steps to protect your health when you're on the road. By consulting with doctors and medical professionals at your local CityMD urgent care and getting the necessary vaccines, you can enjoy your trip and have peace of mind knowing you’ve taken the proper steps to protect yourself.

So, remember to think about travel vaccines when you are planning your next trip. And if you are behind on other vaccines like the flu shot, varicella, tetanus, or Hepatitis B, just stop by your neighborhood CityMD. Our providers can give you the advice you need to stay protected. We hope you enjoy your travels.