Thursday, February 25, 2016

Travel Safe- Get Vaccinated

If you are planning to travel outside your country it is important to get vaccinated against certain diseases which might be prevalent in other parts of the world. Some vaccines are compulsory and without proper vaccination you will not be given permission to travel to certain countries.

Travel doctors can guide you on what kind of vaccinations you require. If you are planning to visit a place where chances of malaria are likely, your doctor will give you the relevant vaccine to help prevent that.
Some countries expect you to have an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) before you enter that country.

No matter where you go, you should ensure that your vaccines are up to date. Vaccination against tetanus, measles, diphtheria should be updated every ten years.

While getting vaccinated for foreign travel, there are certain things that you should consider:

1. The country you are visiting: Vaccination is given depending on which country you are travelling to. Some diseases are common in only certain parts of the world. Travel immunization is necessary for certain diseases like hepatitis A,B,HPV and influenza. For example - if you are travelling to the Indian subcontinent you need to get vaccination against hepatitis tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A and so on.

2. The duration of your stay: The longer you stay, the greater is the risk of being exposed to diseases.
   
3. Will you be in contact with animals: If this is the case you are at more risk of getting  diseases spread by animals such as rabies.
   
4. What will you be doing during your stay: The activities you have planned in the foreign country will determine your exposure to the elements. For example, whether you will be staying indoors or spending more time outdoors.
   
5. Your age and health: If you have some existing health condition or issues, you will have to get it checked before getting the vaccination.    
   
Explain your travel plans to your immunization doctor and they will recommend the proper vaccinations for you. If you live in a city like New York, you can easily find experienced medical professionals who provide travel immunizations in NYC.

Immunization is the best way to protect yourself from vaccine preventable diseases. Do not skip this important part of your travel planning.