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First Steps | Disease and Immunization Facts | Risks

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Disease and Immunization Facts

Facts about immunization

• When planning a trip, the last thing you want to think about is illness.
  
• Immunizations are one of the best ways to protect yourself from serious diseases, many of which can be life threatening.
  
• The purpose of a vaccine is to stimulate the body's defense system in order to prepare it for a future encounter with an infectious disease.

What immunizations do I need?

• There are three types of immunizations: Routine, Required and Recommended:

Routine Immunizations - All adults should update these routine immunizations every 10 years, even if they do not plan to travel:

• Tetanus and Diphtheria

• Health Tip: Certain health conditions can dramatically increase a traveler's risk. If you are pregnant or have a chronic medical condition such as allergies, asthma, diabetes or epilepsy,  be sure to consult a health care professional or a Kelsey-Seybold Travel Medicine Professional prior to departure.                  

Required Immunizations - Some countries will require proof of these immunizations before entry:

• Yellow fever

• Meningococcal

Recommended Immunizations - Depending on your itinerary, planned activities and current health status, your health care professional may recommend one or more of these immunizations:

• Poliomyelitis
• Influenza
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Meningococcal
• Rabies
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella
• Yellow Fever

If traveling with children, additional vaccines may be required for them. Consult with their pediatrician or Kelsey-Seybold Travel Medicine professional.

Consult with your local Kelsey-Seybold Travel Clinic for advice on planning a safe and healthy trip.