Although it might not be the most exciting part of planning an overseas trip, it is crucial to be aware of and immunised against the diseases and infections not generally found in Australia that you might be exposed to, especially if you’re travelling with children.
To make things a little easier for you, NPS have launched a new online knowledge hub providing detailed, up-to-date information about travel vaccines. It includes specific details about the vaccines available in Australia, who should have them, what infections they protect against, and the possible side effects.
NPS Clinical Adviser Dr Phillippa Binns says, “You should see a doctor well before your departure date – at least six to eight weeks – to discuss what vaccinations you will need for the countries you will be travelling to. Some vaccinations need more than one dose to be given over a period of time, and your body will need time to build up immunity before you leave.”
We’ve rounded up the vaccination recommendation for the some of the destinations Aussies love to visit.
Southeast Asia
Whether it’s Indonesia, Thailand or Vietnam, Southeast Asia has proved one of the Aussies favourite travel destinations.
All travellers should look at getting vaccinations against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Rabies, Typhoid Fever and Japenese Encephalitis. In some regions, a course of Anti-Malaria vaccinations may be required too.
Speak to your doctor about where and when you’ll be travelling to find out.
Fiji and Vanuatu
Both Fiji and Vanuatu have remained firm family favourites for years now. It is recommended that before leaving you speak to your doctor about Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid.
Western Europe
When travelling to areas of Western Europe like France, Italy and Greece, vaccinations aren’t usually the first thing that crosses your mind but you will be at risk of contracting both Hepatitis B and Rabies so it is advised you are immunised against both.
Again, it is crucial to speak to your doctor about the specific places you are visiting.
India
India is a magical, eye-opening place but it is also a high-risk destination when it comes to serious diseases.
Luckily, modern medicine means we don’t have to spend the whole time worrying if we’re prepared. Before you depart, you’ll need to speak to your doctor about Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Polio, Typhoid, Rabies and Japanese Encephalitis vaccinations.
It is advised that you visit your doctor well before you leave as you certainly won’t want to have all of these needles at once!
Mexico
It’s the land of nachos, bright colours and beautiful beaches and a destinations Aussie’s love to visit. Get vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Typhoid and Rabies before you head off.
Remember to always speak to your doctor before you head over seas, especially if you’re travelling with children.
The My Vaccination website is a great spot for travellers and the NPS vaccination knowledge hub can be accessed at www.nps.org.au/vaccines
