Travel Vaccines Specialist

What are vaccines?

Vaccines are shots that protect you from disease. These shots contain weakened or dead germs, including bacterial, viral, or parasitic germs, that when injected into your body stimulates your immune system to create antibodies to fight off the infection. When you come in contact with the germ, your body is able to kill it before it makes you sick.

You may remember getting vaccines as a child, but adults need vaccines too. And, if you’re traveling abroad, you may be exposed to germs you’ve never come in contact with before. Travel vaccines can protect you from getting sick from those germs.

What are travel vaccines?

Travel vaccines refer to the vaccinations you need when traveling outside the United States. Like every other vaccine you’ve received, these shots stimulate your body to produce antibodies that protect you from getting sick while away, and when you return home.

Some of the most common travel vaccines needed include typhoid, yellow fever, meningococcal, and malaria pills.

How do I know what type of travel vaccines I need?

You may not need vaccines for every destination you go to outside the country, but you should always consult with Dr. Veiseh soon after you plan your trip to be safe. The types of vaccines you need depend on your destination, and the country you’re traveling to may require proof of vaccination upon arrival.

Dr. Veiseh keeps close track of vaccine recommendations established by international health organizations and knows exactly what you need to stay safe. He may also provide additional travel tips specific to your destination to help you stay well abroad, including the types of medications you should take, whether it’s safe to drink the water, and how to prevent food poisoning.

Before you go on any trip overseas, Dr. Veiseh may recommend, in addition to travel vaccines, that you update your regular vaccines, such as:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Tetanus
• Diphtheria
• Flu shot
• MMR
• Typhoid

Standard vaccines help protect you at home and abroad, and many do not require boosters for years.

When should I get my travel vaccines?

You should contact Dr. Veiseh as soon as you make your travel plans to schedule your travel vaccine consultation. It can take some vaccines a few weeks to become effective. The earlier you get your shots, the safer you’ll be.

Ideally, you should get your vaccines at least one month before your departure. To schedule your travel vaccines consultation, call A. Shawn Veiseh, MD, or request an appointment online today.