Whether you are traveling abroad for work or for leisure, there’s no denying that visiting a foreign country is an enjoyable experience. This is especially true when you visit a country for the very first time. It’s easy to get caught up with planning your schedule or packing your luggage, but be sure to make time to also visit an urgent care center to receive your travel vaccinations.
Travel vaccines are important for two distinct reasons. The first reason is that certain countries may have diseases that are not found in the U.S., which means we do not have the natural defenses to fight them off. The second reason is to prevent becoming infected, returning to the United States, and spreading the disease to other people.
In general, see your doctor at least six weeks before you’re scheduled to travel. This should give you enough time to receive the necessary doses of whichever vaccine or booster shot needed. Aside from getting inoculated at your local urgent care center, such as U.S. HealthWorks Medical Group, be sure to do the following:
Check for Any Alerts from the CDC or WHO
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization monitor any health risks present in specific countries. This is especially true when there is an outbreak in the area. It pays to know what you may be facing as you can plan ahead and minimize your risk of exposure. You may want to share any information you find with your doctor so you can get his or her input. Similarly, knowing if there is an outbreak in the region you are traveling can help your doctor provide you with the right vaccinations.
Go Through Your Medical History with Your Doctor
Your medical history can provide you with an idea of your risk of getting certain diseases. As such, it’s a good idea to review your medical history with your doctor: injuries, asthma, allergies, etc. With this, your doctor should be able to assess your risk accurately and provide you with any prescription medication you may need for your trip.
Pick Up Special Prevention Prescriptions
You’d be surprised by how many people check-in their luggage only to realize they forgot to pick up their prescription medication. Play it safe and purchase any medication your doctor prescribes immediately after your consultation. Store it in a highly visible area to make sure you don’t forget it at home.
Sources:
10 Things You Need to Do Before Any International Trip, fodors.com
20 Tips Before Traveling Internationally, travelzoo.com
