If you are planning to visit another country—whether for vacation, work, or to see family—it is a good idea to learn in advance which vaccines you may need.
Traveling is an exciting experience, but it can also expose you to illnesses that are not common where you live. That is why protecting your health before you leave is an essential part of trip planning.
Immunization is not limited to vaccines alone. It is also important to consider healthy habits such as good hygiene, eating safe food, and preventing insect bites or animal scratches.
In this article, you will find a general guide to the most common vaccines for travelers so you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
What Should I Do Before Traveling?
One of the first steps when organizing your trip is checking whether the country you will visit requires any specific vaccine for entry.
In addition, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional at least 6 to 8 weeks before traveling, since some vaccines require multiple doses or time to become fully effective.
A useful tip is to carry an updated vaccination record with you, especially if you travel to regions where proof of immunization is mandatory.
What Vaccines Do I Need for Travel?
The vaccines you may need depend on several factors, such as:
- Your age
- Your vaccination history
- Pre-existing health conditions
- The length of your trip
- The activities you plan to do
- The type of accommodation where you will stay
In general, travel immunizations can be grouped into three categories: routine, required, and recommended vaccines.
1. Routine Vaccines
These are the vaccines everyone should have according to their age, even before considering international travel.
For example, if someone has not completed their basic immunization schedule, it is important to catch up before leaving the country.
Common routine vaccines include:
- Hepatitis B
- Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
For adults, keeping booster shots up to date is also recommended, such as:
- Tetanus and diphtheria
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
- Polio
2. Required Vaccines
These vaccines are mandatory in certain countries and may be necessary to obtain a visa or enter legally.
Some of the most common required vaccines include:
- Yellow fever
- Meningococcal vaccine (for certain destinations or pilgrimages)
3. Recommended Vaccines Depending on Your Destination
These vaccines are not always mandatory, but they may be strongly recommended depending on where you are traveling and your personal health situation.
Some of the most common include:
- COVID-19
- Hepatitis A
- Influenza (flu)
- Typhoid fever
- Rabies (for rural areas or long trips)
- Japanese encephalitis (in some parts of Asia)
- Cholera and traveler’s diarrhea (in certain high-risk regions)
Common Vaccines for Adult Travelers
Below are some vaccines that are frequently recommended for travelers:
Polio
Polio is caused by a virus that can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. If you are traveling to areas where cases are still reported, a booster dose may be advised.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a liver infection mainly spread through contaminated food or water. It is usually given in two doses for stronger protection.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B also affects the liver and can be transmitted through contact with blood or unprotected sexual activity.
It is especially recommended if you are planning a long stay or may have close medical or personal contact with local populations.
Typhoid Fever
Typhoid is a serious bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is commonly considered for travel to regions with limited sanitation.
Cholera and Traveler’s Diarrhea
These infections are caused by bacteria found in contaminated food or water. In some cases, preventive vaccines may be available for travelers visiting higher-risk areas.
Influenza (Flu)
The flu vaccine is important, as influenza circulates during different seasons depending on the hemisphere or climate of the country you are visiting.
Japanese Encephalitis
This is a severe mosquito-borne illness found in certain rural areas of Asia. If your travel includes these regions, vaccination well in advance is recommended, since two doses are usually required.
Rabies
Rabies is a viral infection that affects the nervous system and is transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals.
Vaccination is recommended if you will be spending several weeks in high-risk areas or participating in outdoor activities.
Yellow Fever
Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease present in some tropical regions of Africa and Latin America. In many cases, vaccination is required for entry.
Final Recommendation
Every trip is different. The best way to prepare is to speak with a healthcare professional or travel medicine specialist, who can advise you on the exact vaccines you need based on your destination.
Getting vaccinated on time is one of the best ways to protect your health and enjoy your travel experience without unnecessary worries.
Sources
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/travel-immunizations-adults
https://www.immunize.ca/travellers
https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-library/immunizations/schedules
