Are you traveling a long distance? Do you have a long-haul trip planned for this winter? If you do then you need to consider your immunizations. Immunizations are important, particularly if you are traveling to a developing country. Don’t leave your healthcare pre-trip until the last minute. What do you need to consider, and where can you get advice?
It is worth remembering that a trip abroad to a destination like Africa, or South America, could entail a bit of financial investment in terms of immunizations. A trip to East Africa, for instance, requires vaccinations for yellow fever, tetanus, polio, diphtheria, cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A, meningitis, and even rabies and hepatitis B depending on your travel plans. These immunizations all cost money, and some need to be administered several weeks in advance of your trip. You may be covered for some of these conditions, so booster shots may be recommended.
Visit your healthcare provider or a specialist travel health clinic for advice in advance of your departure. Private travel clinics may be significantly more expensive than your regular doctor, but your doctor may not administer all of the immunizations you need. Shop around if necessary, to get the best deal on your immunizations. Wherever you go, leave enough time to carry out a full course of vaccinations. Some jabs such as rabies require up to three appointments before completing the course. Being properly immunized is important, so if you get the chance to go on a long-haul trip at the last minute, and you are not up to date on your jabs, then think carefully.
When you have your appointment be prepared to give full details of your travel itinerary. This means not just the countries, but also the specific regions you will be visiting, and the time of year. Your medical plan will take into account the scarceness or availability of facilities as well as the places you go. Certain areas of a country are declared malaria-free, while other regions you need to take anti-malarials.
