International Travel

Overview of International Travel Services

International Travel services provide essential, up-to-date information on vaccinations and preventive measures to help avoid the spread of diseases. These recommendations or requirements apply to travelers visiting areas where illnesses such as Measles, Poliomyelitis, Typhoid Fever, Viral Hepatitis, Yellow Fever, and Malaria are prevalent.

Risk Factors for Travelers

The risk of acquiring an illness when traveling internationally varies based on the destination and activities undertaken. Developing countries present a higher risk of illness compared to developed areas, largely due to differences in living conditions, sanitation, hygiene, and immunization coverage.

Risk Levels Based on Travel Itineraries

• Lower Risk: Travelers visiting well-established tourist areas with minimal exposure to rural regions may face a lower risk of consuming food or water of questionable quality.
• Higher Risk: Those visiting smaller cities, villages, or off-the-beaten-path destinations, staying for extended periods, or interacting closely with local residents, especially children, face a higher risk of contracting infectious diseases.

Exposure to unsanitary food and water, as well as close contact with individuals carrying harmful organisms, can increase the likelihood of disease transmission.

Vaccination Requirements

Some countries mandate travelers to present an international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever as a condition for entry. This requirement is particularly enforced when travelers come from areas where Yellow Fever is present.

Preventive Measures

In addition to required vaccines, additional or booster vaccines may be recommended depending on the destination. It is advised that international travelers contact their local health department at least six weeks before departure to schedule an appointment. During the appointment, travelers can receive current health information and obtain the necessary vaccines for their trip.

Available Vaccines

The vaccines offered for international travelers include:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Tetanus
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)
• Meningococcal
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Typhoid
• Polio
• Yellow Fever