Is it that time of year when you have scheduled some much-needed time off and planned an exciting adventure to a beautiful destination you have dreamed of visiting? But have you asked yourself this question? ‘Do you need to be vaccinated to fly or travel?’
It’s essential to prioritise your and your family’s health and well-being while travelling, including being aware of the necessary vaccinations.
In this blog, we will explore travel vaccinations, when and what may be required, and address common questions about staying healthy while travelling.
At MyHealthcare Clinic, we understand the importance of staying protected during your journeys.
We have you covered, from essential jabs to lowering your risk of diseases like typhoid, malaria and yellow fever.
Book your travel vaccinations effortlessly with MyHealthcare Clinic’s online platform for a seamless experience.
Why Do I Need Vaccinations to Travel?
One of the key reasons vaccinations are necessary for travel is to protect yourself from infectious diseases that may be prevalent in different parts of the world. By getting vaccinated, you safeguard your health and contribute to global efforts to prevent the spread of diseases.
What Vaccines Are Needed for Travel?
The specific vaccinations you need for overseas travel depend on several factors, including:
- Your destination
- Duration of your stay
- Your current immunisation status
Possible vaccines needed to travel include:
- Typhoid
- Japanse Encephalitis
- Rabies
- Hepatitis A & B
- Yellow Fever & Certification
- Malarial prophylaxis
- Cholera
- Tetanus
- Diptheria
- Polio
At MHC, we offer comprehensive vaccinations to meet your travel needs. Our experienced clinicians will assess your requirements and provide personalised recommendations based on the most up-to-date guidelines.
Visit our Travel Vaccination Clinic page for more details on the vaccinations we offer and their prices.
Vaccination Recommendations for Different Destinations
Different countries have varying vaccination requirements based on their specific disease risks.
Here are some of the countries that require vaccinations for travel:
- Australia: Yellow fever vaccination may be required if you travel from or have recently visited a yellow fever-endemic country.
- Brazil: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travellers coming from or visiting certain areas.
- China: Some regions may require proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are arriving from an endemic country.
- India: A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from or have transited through an endemic country.
- Kenya: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic areas.
- Saudi Arabia: For travellers performing Hajj or Umrah, proof of meningococcal vaccination is required.
- South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you travel from or through a yellow fever-endemic country.
- Thailand: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from or have transited through certain countries with a risk of yellow fever.
- Uganda: A valid yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers arriving from or transiting through yellow fever endemic areas.
- Vietnam: Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are arriving from or have transited through yellow fever-endemic countries.
This is not a complete list, so it’s still crucial to check the latest vaccination recommendations for your intended destination well before your travel dates.
Here is a simple list of diseases where vaccines are recommended and some of the countries where they are prevalent:
- Yellow fever: Brazil, Colombia, and sub-Saharan African countries.
- Malaria: Countries in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and South America.
- Typhoid: South Asian countries, Southeast Asian countries, and parts of Africa.
- Hepatitis A: Developing regions in Asia, Africa, and South America.
- Japanese Encephalitis: India, China, Thailand, Vietnam, and parts of Asia.
As a certified yellow fever centre, MyHealthcare Clinic can provide the necessary yellow fever vaccination and certification.
If you are unsure which vaccination is currently required for the country you are travelling to, contact us for more information.
When Do I Get the Vaccinations Before Travelling?
It’s advisable to schedule your travel vaccinations at least six to eight weeks before your departure. Some vaccinations require multiple doses or may take time to develop immunity in your body. By allowing ample time for vaccinations, you ensure maximum protection during your trip.
How do I Lower My Risk of Malaria and Yellow Fever When Travelling?
In addition to vaccinations, certain destinations may require additional precautions to prevent diseases such as malaria and yellow fever.
MyHealthcare Clinic’s travel health specialists can advise on preventive measures, including anti-malarial medications and mosquito bite prevention strategies. Taking these precautions will help minimise your risk of contracting these diseases.
How Do I Stay Healthy While Travelling?
Maintaining good health during your travels involves more than just vaccinations. It’s essential to practice proper hygiene, including:
- Handwashing
- Safe food and water consumption
- Being cautious about potential environmental health risks
Our travel doctors can offer guidance on staying healthy while travelling and provide tailored advice based on your destination.
Travelling should be an exciting and enriching experience, and your health should be a top priority. By understanding the importance of travel vaccinations and taking appropriate precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Book Your Travel Jabs with MyHealthcare Clinic
At MyHealthcare Clinic, we prioritise convenience and accessibility. Our user-friendly website allows you to book travel vaccinations online, making the process quick and hassle-free.
With our skilled team and comprehensive range of vaccinations, you can embark on your holiday with peace of mind, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
For more information on the question ‘Do you need a vaccine to travel?’, please read our FAQs:
When would I need to show my vaccination card when travelling? On departure, arrival, or when applying for a visa?
The requirements for showing a vaccination card when travelling can vary depending on your destination and specific circumstances. In some cases, you may be required to show your vaccination card during the visa application process, while in other instances, you may be asked to present it upon arrival or departure.
It’s important to check the entry requirements and regulations of your destination country and consult with relevant authorities or your travel agent for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the need to show your vaccination card.
Will my travel agent or travel clinic tell me which travel vaccination I need?
While travel agents may provide general information about travel health, it is recommended to consult with a travel clinic or our doctors at Myheathcare Clinic, who specialise in travel medicine, to receive personalised advice on the specific vaccinations you need for your destination.
How many vaccines do you need to travel?
The number of vaccines needed for travel varies depending on your destination, duration of stay, and individual factors. Our dedicated team can assess your needs and recommend the appropriate vaccines for your trip.
Do you need a booster to travel?
Some vaccines may require booster doses to maintain long-term protection. The need for boosters depends on the specific vaccine and the duration since your last dose. Our travel doctors can advise whether a booster is necessary for your travel plans.
How safe are the vaccinations?
Vaccinations are safe, having undergone rigorous testing and approval processes, but like any medical intervention, they may have potential side effects that are typically mild and temporary.
Are there any side effects from the vaccinations?
Side effects from vaccinations are usually mild, such as soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, but serious side effects are rare.
How long after the vaccinations will I be protected?
The duration of protection varies depending on the specific vaccine, but most vaccines provide immunity within a few weeks after completion of the recommended doses.
Can my primary care provider give me travel vaccinations?
Primary care providers, like MyHealthcare Clinic, can administer some travel vaccinations, but it’s advisable to check with them beforehand as they may refer you to a specialised travel clinic for certain vaccines.
If I do pick up a disease after I travel, should I visit the travel clinic or my primary caregiver?
If you develop symptoms of illness after travelling, it’s recommended that you visit your primary caregiver for evaluation and appropriate care.
Do I need jabs to travel to South Africa?
Travellers to South Africa should check the latest vaccination requirements, as some vaccines, such as yellow fever, may be required depending on your country of origin or recent travel history.
How long before travel should the typhoid vaccine be given?
The typhoid vaccine is typically given at least two weeks before travel to allow sufficient time for immunity to develop.
I had travel vaccinations for my last international trip. Do I need to get them again for my next trip?
Vaccination needs can vary between trips, so it’s essential to consult with a travel clinic to assess whether you need updated vaccinations for your next international trip.
Are vaccines required to travel to Europe from the UK?
Vaccines are not generally required to travel to Europe from the UK, but it’s still advisable to check the specific requirements of your destination. Check with your travel clinic or travel agent for specific details.
What injections do you need for Asia and Japan?
The specific injections needed for Asia and Japan can vary depending on your itinerary, length of stay, and individual factors, so it’s recommended to consult with a travel clinic or MyHealthcare Clinic for personalised advice.
What vaccine is required to enter Africa?
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into some African countries, but it depends on your country of origin and the specific country you plan to visit.
Do you still need to be vaccinated to travel to the USA?
Vaccination requirements for travel to the USA vary depending on your country of origin, so it’s advisable to check the latest regulations and recommendations.
What are the vaccination requirements to enter Australia?
The vaccination requirements to enter Australia can vary, so it’s important to check the specific requirements based on your country of origin and travel history.
How long is the yellow fever vaccine good for?
The yellow fever vaccine provides long-lasting protection and is generally considered valid for life, but some countries may require a booster dose after a certain number of years.
How often do I need a typhoid vaccination?
The typhoid vaccine is typically needed every 2 to 3 years, depending on the type of vaccine received, and our travel doctor can provide specific guidance based on your needs.