Ever since Edward Jenner developed the Smallpox vaccine in 1796, humans and even animals have benefited from the ability to take what we know about a disease, and use that knowledge to protect ourselves against it. Just like other life forms, like plants and animals, viruses and diseases vary from one place to another. As an important part of preparing for dive travel, ensure you're properly vaccinated. Here, we'll take a brief look at some common vaccines you'll need for international travel.
When to Schedule Your Vaccinations
If you know you'll be heading to a certain destination, the best time to schedule your vaccinations is just as soon as your travel plans have begun to come together. Most vaccines take a short period of time to become effective, and certain vaccinations need to be given in a series, either over a period of days, or a period of weeks. At the very least, set up an appointment for four to six weeks prior to your trip.
Which Vaccinations to Get
In the United States, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) divides vaccines for travelers into three different categories: required, recommended, and routine. While your health care provider will tell you which vaccines you'll need, it's a good idea to be aware of them in advance of your appointment.
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Routine vaccinations - These vaccinations include common childhood vaccines given to infants and children in the United States, and vaccines given to adults, as well. Think Polio, Measles, and Tetanus, and you're on the right track.
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Recommended vaccinations - These vaccinations are designed to protect you from illnesses that don't normally occur in the U.S., but which are common in the countries you'll be traveling through or to. They help protect you personally, and they help prevent infectious diseases from crossing international borders. There are many different factors influencing these vaccines, including which season of the year you'll be traveling in, whether you'll be spending any time in rural or undeveloped areas, your health status, your age, and your overall immunization history.
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Required vaccinations - The only vaccination international health regulations require is Yellow Fever immunization for those traveling to tropical South America and some sub-Saharan African destinations. Yellow fever is caused by a virus, which is carried by mosquitos. While most people recover from it after an initial illness, it can be fatal. If you plan to travel to or through Saudi Arabia during Umrah or the Hajj, you'll be required to show proof of meningococcal vaccine. Meningococcal diseases are painful and have a high mortality rate. Protecting yourself is a great idea, in any case.
In addition to ensuring you're properly vaccinated prior to traveling, be sure you protect yourself by learning about food and water safety, and ensure you know whether there are certain insects, such as mosquitoes and other biting bugs, or certain animals, including feral dogs and cats, which are best avoided. In some places, medical assistance is far away or severely limited, so be sure you do all you can to protect yourself from preventable diseases, and your odds of becoming ill while on vacation will be much lower.