Planning to travel to a foreign country? You might need more than just your passport and visa. In fact, you might need to see your doctor for an update on your vaccinations. Vaccinations are the best way to stay healthy, and prevent the spread of certain diseases like malaria and yellow fever. What vaccinations do you need? It all depends on where you will be traveling. Here’s what you should know.
Vaccinations Vary
The types of vaccines you will need depend upon your destination country. This is because certain diseases like malaria, typhoid, and yellow fever exist in some places but not others. Therefore, it is always advisable to do a quick internet search on which vaccines will be required for travel to your destination. Discuss this with your doctor as well, as he or she can also advise you about the vaccines you will need.
However, your destination country is not the only variable that determines which vaccines you will need. Your overall health and with whom you will be traveling (children for example), is also a factor. Travelers with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease or diabetes may be required to have additional vaccinations. The same is true for children, who are at risk for disease exposure.
The CDC has a very helpful website for determining which vaccines you will need based on your destination country and your health.
Yellow Fever Vaccines Require a Participating Clinic Visit
Your doctor can give you most of the vaccinations you need. However, if you need the yellow fever vaccine, you will need to visit a participating clinic, as not all doctors can administer this vaccine.
The yellow fever vaccine must be administered 10 days before you depart on your trip. You must show proof of this vaccine when entering your destination country. A stamped vaccine certificate will be provided to you after you have received the vaccination.
Travel Related Vaccines Are Not Covered by Insurance
According to data gathered by USA Today, your health insurance will not cover the cost of travel related vaccines. This means that you will need to pay out of pocket, and some vaccines can be expensive. In fact, a typhoid vaccination can range from $85-$300. Check with your doctor’s office for vaccination prices, so you are not shocked by the cost at your visit.