Let us be honest with ourselves.
Satiation of our wanderlust is one of the most fulfilling things we can do in life. Yet, at the same time as we traverse the globe, we are exposed to a multitude of illnesses.
Vaccination, is our protection.
Vaccinations
Travel vaccines or travel immunizations, simply put, are injections taken by travelers whose intended destinations may prove to be biologically ... unsavory.
These vaccinations expose the body to deactivated germs or particles thereof, thereby causing the body to produce immunity against the targeted pathogen and conferring protection against future infections if exposed.
Because the germs are deactivated and or are only particles thereof, the vaccination process does not cause the body to fall ill.
In truth, travel vaccines are safe and effective.
When does One Need Vaccinations?
Broadly speaking, there are three types of vaccinations:
Routine Vaccines
These are the standard child and adult immunizations recommended for the general population as recommended by the Ministry of Health.
Recommended Vaccines
These are travel vaccinations that are recommended when there is intention to travel to countries with intermediate to high risk profiles for certain diseases that might otherwise not be endemic in the patient’s country of origin.
Required Vaccines
These are vaccinations that are mandatory by law prior to legal entry to the intended destination. Examples include the yellow fever vaccine prior to traveling to parts of Africa or South America, and the meningococcal vaccine when traveling to Saudi Arabia during the haji.
So, Which Travel Vaccines Will I Need?
Here’s a list of vaccinations that are not routinely covered by standard immunisation schedules:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid and paratyphoid fever
- Meningococcal disease
- Yellow Fever
- Rabies
- Japanese Encephalitis
Do you require all of the above? Or only some of the above?
It is best to consult a health professional before making such decisions and more importantly, to do your research prior to travel simply because a traveler that intends to backpack or go camping in a country will have a very different risk profile compared to a traveler who intends to stay in a 5-star hotel throughout their stay.
Note also that some travel immunisations might require a series of innoculations over a period of time - eg Hep B. Hence, it is best to be aware of the timeline prior to traveling and consult your health professional early.
Also, always inform your health professional of the following:
Your current health
If you are taking any chronic medications or have existing illnesses, it is important that your health practitioner be made aware prior to administering any vaccines.
Also inform of any allergies you might have - some vaccines cannot be administered if you have an allergy to egg white, for example.
Immunization history
Your immunisation history will prove invaluable - some vaccines only require booster shots instead of having patients undergo the entire protocol if there has been previous vaccinations.
Itinerary
Where you’re travelling, duration of travel, time of year, accommodation arrangements, and or other special activities should all be made known to your health professional.
Ultimately, it's up to you to decide whether or not to see a doctor about recommended vaccinations.
What Steps Should I Take to Protect Myself While Traveling?
Common sense about basic hygiene would form the very foundation of self protection. Basic sanitation, drinking bottled water, and avoiding food from dubious sources, keeping insect repellants handy etc all protect against illnesses while traveling.
The important thing is knowledge about the target destination. Forewarned is forearmed. Educate yourself.
Where Can I Get More Information About Travel Vaccinations?
Most center for disease control websites in developed countries will have the standard recommendations for travel vaccines specific to different countries. Visit your local website today.
About The Author
Dr Lau Tzun Hon is a resident housecall doctor at CMY Medical. He received his MBBS (Hons) from Sydney University in 2001 and has served in the both private and government restructured hospitals prior to commencing his practice in Home Care.
While in the Government Restructured Hospitals, Dr Lau served primarily in the Department of Accident & Emergency Medicine and Anaesthesia. Upon entering the Private sector, Dr Lau worked in both public and private A&E departments before venturing into Home Care.
Over the years, he has developed a strong passion to maintain and enhance the quality of life for patients under his care. A strong believer that healthcare does not need to be financially straining, Dr Lau often delivers more value beyond expectations.
No comments:
Post a Comment