Australia is currently experiencing its busiest month for short-term overseas travel, prompting many to start planning their trips. Amidst the excitement of travel arrangements, an essential element—pre-travel vaccinations—can often be overlooked, particularly by those visiting friends and family abroad. This group tends to travel without getting vaccinated, placing them at a higher risk of infectious diseases compared to other travelers.
Travelers visiting friends and relatives usually spend longer periods abroad, venture into rural areas, and frequently consume local or untreated food and water. They also tend to have closer interactions with the local populations, increasing their vulnerability to health risks.
While infectious diseases exist globally, certain destinations pose a higher threat due to factors such as tropical climates, poor sanitation, and the presence of disease-carrying insects or animals. This risk is compounded by declining vaccination rates among children and low uptake among adults for vaccines such as the flu shot.
Falling ill overseas can severely disrupt travel plans or, in more serious cases, may require navigating unfamiliar health care systems. Thus, understanding which vaccines are necessary is crucial for ensuring a safe trip.
Travel vaccines can be categorized into three groups. The first includes routine vaccines that aren’t travel-specific, such as those for measles and influenza. The second group targets diseases prevalent in specific regions, necessitating vaccines like the typhoid vaccine. Lastly, some vaccinations may be mandated by law for entry into certain countries, such as the yellow fever vaccine.
Measles, known for its high contagiousness, remains a significant concern. Outbreaks have been reported globally, including in Australia, primarily connected to travelers returning from destinations in Southeast Asia. Ensuring two doses of the measles vaccine is crucial. Many adults are unsure about their vaccination status, making it advisable to consult a healthcare provider or check vaccine records, as receiving an additional dose is safe prior to international travel. For Australian infants aged six months to one year who are traveling, a supplementary free measles vaccine is available due to their heightened risk of severe disease.
Influenza continues to be a prevalent issue among travelers. Although many are aware of the need for a flu shot in colder months, it’s crucial to recognize that the vaccine provides effective protection for only three to four months. Thus, travelers heading to the Northern Hemisphere during the winter months should consider getting vaccinated again.
Hepatitis A, another viral infection impacting the liver, is common in many countries and is transmitted through contaminated food and water or close contact with infected individuals. A vaccine is available, which can be administered from one year of age, with two doses offering long-term protection.
Typhoid fever, spread through contaminated food and water, poses additional risks, particularly to travelers visiting Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. There are two types of typhoid vaccines: an injectable one for individuals aged two and older, and an oral version for those over six years of age.
Rabies presents a profound risk, as the disease is invariably fatal once symptoms appear. It is primarily spread through bites or scratches from infected animals, particularly dogs. Ensuring pre-travel rabies vaccinations can significantly simplify treatment if exposed to an infected animal. A vaccination schedule typically involves two to three visits before departure.
In addition to these, vaccines for mosquito-borne diseases such as yellow fever and Japanese encephalitis, cholera, and mpox are also recommended based on travel plans and activities.
For a personalized assessment of necessary vaccinations, travelers should consult their general practitioner (GP) or a travel medicine specialist. They will consider the intended destination, planned activities, and overall health status to provide tailored recommendations. Many travel vaccines are also available at pharmacies. While some vaccines may incur a cost, it is a small price to pay compared to the potential expenses associated with health complications during travel. Ensuring proper vaccinations can significantly reduce the risk of health disruptions and support a safe and enjoyable journey.
