Yes, you need specific vaccines before traveling to protect yourself from serious diseases. The vaccines you need depend on where you’re going, how long you’ll stay, and what activities you plan to do. Most travelers need routine vaccines like measles, flu, and hepatitis A, plus destination-specific shots like yellow fever or typhoid.
Planning a trip is exciting, but staying healthy while you explore the world should be your top priority. This guide will help you understand exactly which vaccines you need, when to get them, and how to prepare for safe travels.
Why Travel Vaccines Matter
Travel opens you up to diseases that are rare or don’t exist in the United States. Many countries still have outbreaks of illnesses that vaccines can prevent. Without proper protection, a dream vacation can quickly turn into a health nightmare.
International travel increases your chances of getting and spreading diseases that are rare or not found in United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even popular vacation spots can expose you to risks you haven’t faced at home.
The Real Risk
The majority of measles cases imported into the United States occur in unvaccinated U.S. residents who become infected during international travel, according to CDC data. This shows how easily preventable diseases can follow you home and spread to others.
Essential Vaccines Every Traveler Needs
Before we talk about special vaccines for different places, let’s cover the basics. These are shots every traveler should have, no matter where they’re going.
Routine Vaccines You Must Update
Think of these as your foundation. You probably got most of these as a kid, but many need boosters as adults:
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
- Essential for all international travel
- CDC recommends all travelers get fully vaccinated against measles before traveling to any international destination
- One adult booster usually does the trick
Flu Vaccine
- Get it every year, especially before travel
- All travelers should be vaccinated against the flu and current with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters
- Protects you and others around you
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
- Needed every 10 years
- All adults traveling anywhere in the world should, at minimum, check that their tetanus vaccination is up to date
- Protects against wounds and airborne illness
COVID-19
- Still recommended for most travel situations
- Requirements change, so check current guidelines
- Many countries still have entry requirements
Universal Travel Vaccines
These two vaccines are recommended for almost every international trip:
Hepatitis A
- People don’t always realize how important the hepatitis A vaccine is in these situations. We get hepatitis A from eating food contaminated with the virus
- You should preferably have the initial dose at least 2 weeks before you leave, although it can be given up to the day of your departure if needed
- Protects against liver infection from food and water
Hepatitis B
- All adults traveling anywhere in the world should, at minimum, check that their tetanus vaccination is up to date and get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B if they haven’t been
- Important if you might need medical care abroad
- Protects against blood-borne infections
Destination-Specific Vaccines
Now here’s where it gets interesting. Different parts of the world need different protection. Let’s break it down by region.
Traveling to Africa
Africa has some unique health challenges that require special vaccines:
Yellow Fever
- You are more likely to acquire Yellow Fever in a Yellow Fever risk country in Africa than elsewhere in the world
- Required for entry to some countries
- You must get it at least 10 days before travel
- Only available at authorized yellow fever centers
Meningitis
- Meningitis (a sometimes-deadly disease affecting the brain’s exterior covering) is more common in the African “Meningitis Belt” than in countries outside of Africa
- Required for Hajj pilgrimage
- Important for travelers to sub-Saharan Africa
Typhoid
- The vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Africa
- Ideally, the typhoid vaccine should be given at least 1 month before you travel, but it can be given closer to your travel date if necessary
- Protects against contaminated food and water
Traveling to Asia and the Pacific
Asia presents its own set of health risks:
Japanese Encephalitis
- Japanese encephalitis vaccines may be recommended if you’re traveling to Asia or the Western Pacific and plan to stay for more than four weeks
- Important for rural areas and extended stays
- Vaccination against Japanese encephalitis is usually recommended if you’re planning a long stay (usually at least a month) in a country where you could get the condition
Typhoid
- Typhoid and hepatitis A are more common in Southeast Asia because these communicable diseases can be spread through contaminated water
- Essential for most Asian destinations
- Available in both pill and shot form
Traveling to South America
South America shares some risks with Africa but has its own concerns:
Yellow Fever
- Required for many South American countries
- If you’re going to certain parts of Africa and South America, you must get vaccinated against yellow fever
- Plan ahead – limited locations offer this vaccine
Typhoid
- Common recommendation for Central and South America
- It is common in parts of India, Africa, Asia, South and Central America and the Middle East where there is poor sanitation and limited access to clean water
Low-Risk Destinations
Some places need minimal extra protection:
Developed Countries
- If you’re going to countries like Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Western Europe, you probably won’t need any extra vaccines
- Focus on routine vaccines and flu shots
- Check for any current outbreaks
Timing Your Vaccines Right
Getting your shots at the right time is crucial for protection. Here’s what you need to know:
The 4-6 Week Rule
Make an appointment with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist that takes place at least 4-6 weeks before you leave. This timing ensures:
- Vaccines have time to work
- You can complete multi-dose series
- Any side effects resolve before travel
- Time to adjust plans if needed
Last-Minute Travel Options
Don’t panic if you’re traveling soon. Studies suggest that even if the first dose of hepatitis A vaccine is given on the day of travel, this will provide adequate protection.
Quick-Start Vaccines:
- Hepatitis A: Same-day protection possible
- For short-notice travelers, provide injectable typhoid vaccination, as antibodies (and thereby protection) arise about 10-14 days post-vaccination
- Some vaccines work faster than others
Vaccine Types and Timing
Different vaccines work on different schedules according to World Health Organization guidelines:
Single-Dose Vaccines:
- Yellow fever: 10 days before travel
- Typhoid (shot): 2 weeks before travel
- Hepatitis A: Can work same day
Multi-Dose Series:
- Hepatitis B: Needs months for full protection
- Rabies: 3 doses over 21-28 days
- Japanese encephalitis: 2 doses, 28 days apart
Special Considerations
Some travelers need extra attention when it comes to vaccines.
Pregnant Women
Pregnancy changes your vaccine options. It’s unclear whether the Vi and Ty21a vaccines present a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women. But vaccination should be considered if there’s a significant risk of getting typhoid fever.
Always work with your doctor to balance risks and benefits during pregnancy.
Children and Families
Vaccines can help protect babies and children from serious, even deadly, diseases. Kids may need different doses or timing:
- Some vaccines have minimum age requirements
- Getting your child vaccinated will protect them from getting measles — and from bringing it back to the United States where it can spread to others
- Family vaccination protects everyone
People with Health Conditions
If you have ongoing health issues, you might need extra vaccines or special precautions. People with weak immune systems, chronic diseases, or those taking certain medications should get expert advice.
Beyond Vaccines: Malaria Prevention
Vaccines can’t protect against everything. Malaria is a major concern that requires different protection.
Understanding Malaria Risk
Travelers going to malaria-endemic destinations are at risk of contracting the disease, and according to CDC surveillance data, almost all the approximately 2,000 cases of malaria that occur each year in the United States are imported.
High-Risk Areas:
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- Parts of Asia
- Central and South America
- Some Middle Eastern countries
Malaria Prevention Options
Drugs to prevent malaria differ by country of travel. Common options include:
Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone)
- Good choice for last-minute travelers because it can be started one to two days before travel
- Daily pill before, during, and after travel
- Well-tolerated by most people
Doxycycline
- Good for last-minute travelers because the drug is started 1-2 days before traveling to an area where malaria transmission occurs
- Daily pill, inexpensive option
- Also can prevent some additional infections (e.g., Rickettsiae and leptospirosis) and so it may be preferred by people planning to do lots of hiking, camping
Mefloquine
- Weekly pill option
- Not a good choice for last-minute travelers because drug needs to be started 1-2 weeks prior to travel
- Some people experience side effects
Where to Get Your Travel Vaccines
You have several options for getting vaccinated before travel.
Your Regular Doctor
Many routine vaccines are available from your family doctor. You may be able to get some travel vaccines from your primary healthcare provider. This is often the most convenient and affordable option.
Travel Clinics
For complex trips or special vaccines, travel clinics offer expertise. For non-routine vaccinations, you’ll likely need to visit a travel clinic. These specialists understand destination-specific risks.
Pharmacies
Many pharmacies now offer travel vaccines. At Greenleaf Pharmacy, we provide essential travel vaccines including flu shots, Tdap, and other immunizations to keep you protected.
Yellow Fever Centers
If yellow fever vaccine is recommended or required for your destination, you’ll need to go to a vaccine center authorized to give yellow fever vaccinations. These special centers are the only places that can give this required vaccine.
Cost and Insurance
Travel vaccines can add up, but they’re worth the investment in your health.
What Insurance Covers
Most insurance plans cover routine vaccines. Travel-specific vaccines might not be covered, so check with your insurance company first.
Budgeting for Vaccines
- Routine vaccines: Usually covered
- Travel-specific vaccines: $50-200 each
- Consultation fees: $100-300
- Plan ahead to spread costs
Money-Saving Tips
- Get routine vaccines at your regular doctor
- Ask about combination vaccines
- Check if your employer offers travel health benefits
- Some health departments offer vaccines at reduced cost
Staying Healthy While Traveling
Vaccines are just one part of staying healthy abroad. Here are other important steps:
Food and Water Safety
Only eat well-cooked food. Avoid eating from roadside stands and uncooked foods, like salad and raw vegetables. Drink bottled beverages only, including bottled water. The Mayo Clinic Health System emphasizes that this is especially important if you travel in resource-limited regions, such as Southeast Asia or Africa.
Insect Protection
Mosquitos and bugs can transmit parasites and diseases, like yellow fever and malaria. Use mosquito repellents. Protection includes:
- DEET-based repellents
- Long sleeves and pants
- Treated clothing
- Bed nets in high-risk areas
General Health Tips
- Hand hygiene is important at home and overseas. Wash your hands often using soap and hot water
- Avoid crowded places when possible
- Consider masks in high-risk situations
- Stay hydrated and get enough rest
Creating Your Travel Health Plan
Here’s how to put it all together:
Step 1: Research Your Destination
- Check CDC travel pages for your destination
- Look up current disease outbreaks
- Understand entry requirements
- Consider your activities and accommodations
Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment
- Book 4-6 weeks before travel
- If you have a complex itinerary with multiple countries or are traveling to Southeast Asia or Africa, it’s better to make an appointment at the travel clinic
- Bring your vaccination records
- List all medications you take
Step 3: Get Your Vaccines
- Follow the recommended schedule
- Ask about side effects
- Get documentation for travel
- Set reminders for booster shots
Step 4: Prepare for Travel
- Pack extra medications
- Carry vaccination certificates
- Know where to get help abroad
- Consider travel insurance
Common Questions About Travel Vaccines
Do I Need Vaccines for Short Trips?
Yes, even short trips can expose you to diseases. Immunity to typhoid fever can be provided in over 70% of travellers following vaccination 1 week prior to departure. The length of your trip doesn’t change your risk of exposure.
What If I Forget to Get Vaccinated?
Don’t skip your trip, but take extra precautions. Some vaccines can be given at the last minute, and you can still protect yourself through careful food choices and insect protection.
Are Travel Vaccines Safe?
Yes, travel vaccines are very safe. Serious reactions are rare, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. As with any medicine, there is a very remote chance of a vaccine causing a severe allergic reaction, but this is extremely uncommon.
Can I Get Vaccines While Pregnant?
Some vaccines are safe during pregnancy, others are not. Vaccination should be considered if there’s a significant risk of getting typhoid fever. Always work with your doctor to make the right choice.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right vaccines before you travel is one of the smartest things you can do for your health. Start planning early, work with healthcare professionals, and don’t let preventable diseases ruin your adventure.
Remember, It’s important to get vaccinated at least 4 to 6 weeks before you travel. This will give the vaccines time to start working, so you’re protected while you’re traveling. Your future self will thank you for taking these simple steps to stay healthy and safe.
Ready to protect yourself for your next adventure? Visit Greenleaf Pharmacy in Park City for expert vaccination services. Our knowledgeable pharmacists can help you understand which vaccines you need and make sure you’re prepared for safe travels. Call us at 847-242-8267 or stop by our convenient location to get started on your travel health plan today.