Why We Recommend Travel Vaccinations
The adage “prevention is better than cure” is especially relevant before embarking on any kind of travel overseas. Travel to overseas countries may expose individuals to certain infectious diseases that are not prevalent within Australia and may prove to be extremely fatal. This makes it critical to immunise yourself against potential hazards by getting the right kinds of vaccination before you set out on your trip.
Travel Vaccinations: Ask Your GP
During your pre-travel consultation with your GP, it is important that you share all information relating to your travel plans including your detailed travel itinerary to ensure that your GP will be able to provide reliable advice pertaining to the recommended vaccinations and other general travel advice before you embark on overseas travel.
It is recommended that your GP adopt a risk assessment approach while advocating a list of vaccines to be completed. According to the Australian Department of Health, it is recommended that you consult with your GP between 6-8 weeks prior to the departure of your trip in order for your GP to correctly schedule the recommended vaccinations needed before your trip. For more information about your appointment, please view our Travel Advice page here.
What Vaccinations Are Required For Travelling?
Some countries require proof of vaccinations as a prerequisite for entry to the country. Be informed about what vaccinations are considered mandatory by checking the destination country’s consulate. Alternatively, Smartraveller.gov.au has specific travel information for a host of travel destinations across the globe.
Yellow fever vaccinations are necessary prior to undertaking travel to certain countries within Africa. It is highly recommended that individuals travelling to developing countries get vaccinated against Hepatitis A. Other common diseases against which travellers are recommended to get vaccinations against include hepatitis B, cholera, typhoid, tuberculosis, influenza, meningococcal disease, Japanese encephalitis and rabies. Travellers over the age of 65 are also generally advised to get a pneumonia vaccination.
We Can Help
If you wish to have a confidential discussion relating to your upcoming travel plans, your attentive Southbank Doctors at Southgate Medical Centre are more than willing to guide you. Book an appointment today.