The Importance of Travel Vaccinations

Travelling overseas is exciting. But before you pack your bags, there’s something you need to do - get the right vaccinations. I’ve learned that being prepared with the right shots can make your journey safer and more enjoyable.

Depending on the destination, overseas travellers can become ill from a number of diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. Given it can take time for symptoms to present, they can return with a disease unknowingly and cause an outbreak.

If you’re planning to travel overseas you should always ask your doctor or trained pharmacist about vaccinations before you travel. You’ll need to provide them with a list of the places you intent to visit and when. That’s because different countries have different vaccination requirements and the risk of contracting some diseases may depend on the season of the year.

• It’s important to understand that your immunity to some diseases can change or reduced with time and you may need a booster.

As well as where and when, the recommended vaccines for travelling will depend on a number of factors, including:

• your age

• pregnancy or planning pregnancy

• underlying medical conditions

• vaccination history

• birthplace

What Travel Vaccines are Necessary

Traveling exposes you to new environments and health risks. Some countries have diseases that don’t exist locally. Without protection, you could get sick and ruin your trip. Vaccines help your body build immunity against these illnesses.

For example, if you’re heading to tropical regions, you might need vaccines for yellow fever or typhoid. Visiting rural areas could require protection against hepatitis A or Japanese encephalitis. Even urban travel sometimes calls for vaccines like measles or influenza.

When to Get Vaccinated

Your body needs time to develop full immunity, and this may require several doses of a vaccine. So, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist at least 6 to 12 weeks before you leave Australia.

The Australian Immunisation Register (AIR)

The AIR was established to provide Australians with an immunisation record that includes vaccines given:

• Under the National Immunisation Program

• Through school programs

• Privately, such as for flu or travel.

You can access this information online with MyGov through Medicare or by calling 1800 653 809 (Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm).

Cost of Travel Vaccines

Not all vaccines are free, and the cost will depend on the type and the formula. Your doctor/pharmacist can confirm the cost in advance.

5 Steps to Stay Safe Overseas

Here are our recommended 5 steps to stay safe when travelling overseas.

1	Research your destination
2	Get travel insurance
3	Talk to your doctor/pharmacist about vaccines
4	Prepare and pack a sufficient amount of your current medicines.
5	Think about what activities you're planning

Post Vaccination

Getting vaccinated is quick and straightforward. The pharmacist will clean the injection site and give you the shot, usually in the upper arm. You might feel a small pinch or sting.

After vaccination, it’s normal to experience mild side effects such as:

• Soreness or redness at the injection site

• Mild fever or fatigue

• Headache or muscle aches

These symptoms usually go away within a day or two. Drink plenty of water and rest if you feel unwell. Serious reactions are rare but seek medical help if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe rash.

Keep your vaccination record safe. Some countries require proof of vaccination for entry. It’s also useful for future travel or medical care.

Find more information:

• Travel Health Information for things to consider before you leave, while you are away and when you return.

• Smartraveller (Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)