Don’t forget: plan ahead for a healthy trip abroad
By Kristi Durbin, El Paso County Public Health Immunizations and Travel
Division Manager
Are you planning a trip abroad this summer? If so, you probably considered your travel plans, hotel stays and packing list. But you may not realize that another consideration can impact the success of your trip and your overall health: immunizations.
Certain immunizations may be recommended before traveling to your country of choice, even if that country seems safe. These vaccines provide protection against illnesses and diseases you could be exposed to during your trip. Other vaccines are recommended for everyone but may be more important when you travel because your risk of exposure is higher.
Did you know that, according to the International Society of Travel Medicine, up to 50% of people face health issues during travel? Issues can include everything from eating contaminated food, falling ill from a disease spread by an insect, accidents or health issues related to exposure to extreme climates. Children, older adults, those with chronic medical conditions and people visiting friends and family in developing countries face higher risks. The good news is that planning ahead can lessen the chance that a medical issue will disrupt your vacation.
Where to start
It’s a great idea to understand what vaccines are recommended before traveling to help you make the best decisions for yourself and your family. You can ask your doctor or health provider about recommendations or learn more by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health page at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-vaccines.
While your doctor or pharmacist likely offers some vaccines, others can be difficult to find in an ordinary medical setting. El Paso County Public Health’s International Travel Clinic offers a range of travel vaccines. As a member of the International Society of Travel Medicine, the clinic’s nurses are able to provide tailored, accurate information to promote safe travel. This includes providing information about and access to recommended vaccines, as well as additional considerations for those with special medical conditions, tips to stay healthy while traveling to your country of choice, symptoms to watch for, and information on health and safety items you may want to pack.
How to prepare
Planning ahead is key. It’s best to get health advice from your health care provider at least six weeks before your trip. Whether you are visiting the Travel Clinic or asking your provider about travel vaccines, it’s a good idea to come prepared. Bring along your itinerary (including layovers and specific areas you plan to travel to), a current medication list, a copy of your previous vaccination records with dates, your International Certificate of Vaccination (if applicable) and insurance information (if applicable). If visiting the Travel Clinic, please also bring your travel registration forms (with the front and back completed).
At the Travel Clinic, or at your provider’s office, the records you provide will be used to determine what vaccines you are up to date on and what vaccines are still recommended. The Travel Clinic will also discuss your risk for specific diseases, any potential safety risks and steps you can take to protect yourself on your trip, including food, water and insect precautions.
If you need help, or want to schedule an appointment, call the Travel Clinic at 719-578-3199, option 5, or visit us at elpasocountyhealth.org/appointments-adults-children-families/international-travel-clinic.
As you plan for your trip abroad, remember that taking steps to protect your health is a great way to ensure your vacation is memorable for all the right reasons.
