The word “vaccination” stirs up quite a debate here in America. But the reality is that if you want to travel abroad, there are some countries that have certain vaccination requirements, meaning you literally cannot step foot in their country without proof of those immunizations. So how do you know what travel vaccinations your family is required to get? It’s not a hard process, it just takes a little planning ahead (meaning you can’t just run into your local pharmacy one afternoon, get a shot and then be ready to travel). I’m sharing when, where and how to get them.
STEP 1: SEE WHAT IS REQUIRED
Waiting for his yellow fever vaccine! That smile did not last…
If there is anything I can emphasize the most, there are two places you should go. First, check the U.S. Department of State’s website (for non-Americans, whatever government entity oversees your embassies, consulates and international travel should have this information). It’s a one-stop destination for every travel requirement, including visas, passport rules, etc. You can search your travel destination and they very clearly point out if there are immunization requirements. If you have any vaccination requirements, you’ll then be directed to the The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This government site has the most current, detailed information and recommendations for your family’s health.
There is nothing wrong with reaching out to your neighbor who has been to the same country, or even your favorite Facebook travel group with questions. But when it comes to travel REQUIREMENTS, government entities will always have the most current answer. Disease risks are constantly changing, so just because someone told you they didn’t need a vaccination to a certain country 6 months prior doesn’t mean it isn’t a requirement now.
Another reason to not rely on other people’s advice: your unique travel itinerary impacts what vaccinations you need. For example, as an American I would not need the yellow fever vaccine flying in to Paraguay. But since we are stopping in Argentina and Brazil first (high risk countries for yellow fever), we are required to get one.
STEP 2: MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
Do this as soon as you have booked your trip! Not every pharmacy or doctor’s office carries every kind of travel vaccine. For example, our county’s public health office was the only place in town that had our required yellow fever vaccine. Plus, vaccines vary on when they take effect, so making a last minute appointment won’t always work.
STEP 3: GATHER REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION
Your healthcare provider should specify what you need, including any forms you need to fill out. For example, we needed our other vaccination records, which ended up being a multi-day scavenger hunt for my husband and I! The sooner you gather that information, the better. Tip: if you don’t have those handy, check with your child’s pediatrician, your doctor, or even your state’s health department to acquire those records. Not all common vaccinations are technically required (albeit strongly recommended) but your doctor or nurse will want to have a good idea of your health history to go over potential risks.
STEP 4: HEAD TO YOUR APPOINTMENT
Keep in mind that not every immunization is covered by insurance, so be prepared to pay out of pocket (including a travel nurse consult fee). If you aren’t provided fees ahead of time, you can ask for the price list beforehand. Our appointment took about an hour, so bring entertainment for your kid(s). In addition to having the vaccines administered, our nurse went over all the disease risks in the countries we were visiting, symptoms to watch out for, and recommended products to purchase to protect ourselves.
STEP 5: SAFE TRAVELS!
Don’t forget your vaccination card! It’ll be as important as your passport when traveling. You won’t be allowed in the country without it.
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