Australians love to travel. Some of the most popular destinations for Australians have hidden risks if you are unprepared. Just because it is a common place to visit a country doesn’t mean you can visit without being prepared. If you visit Mentone General Practice, our travel vaccination medical professionals can advise you on the appropriate vaccinations for your destination and planned activities. 

Indonesia

Thailand 

Vietnam

Philippines

India

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that all travellers be up-to-date with their routine vaccinations: measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, polio, influenza, and pneumococcal. These vaccinations are given as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP). For a full list, please refer to the NIP schedule, available here. Sometimes, you may need a booster or re-vaccination against a disease to ensure immunity.

Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B

Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis

Vaccination will be considered based on risk, planned locations, and length of travel.

Typhoid

Rabies

Japanese Encephalitis

Yellow Fever vaccination is recommended if you plan to travel to areas of concern, particularly South America or Central Africa.

You must prepare for your travel 6-8 weeks in advance. If you miss this window, don’t delay. Attending your travel clinic as soon as possible is important to obtain advice from your healthcare professional.

Australians are avid travellers, often exploring popular destinations worldwide. However, many of these destinations harbour hidden risks for the unvaccinated. Being well-prepared is crucial even when visiting commonly frequented countries.

Importance of Preparation and Vaccination

Preventive Measures for Safe Travel

Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to be prepared. At Mentone General Practice, our Travel Vaccination specialists can guide you on vaccinations for your destination and planned activities, ensuring a safer travel experience.

Noteworthy Destinations Requiring Additional Vaccinations

Popular Travel Spots with Increased Health Risks

Despite their popularity among Australians, certain countries may necessitate additional vaccinations to mitigate health risks. These destinations include:

  • Indonesia
  • Thailand
  • Vietnam
  • Philippines
  • India

Essential Routine Vaccinations and Boosters

Preventive Measures Recommended by the CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advocate for routine vaccinations to protect against various diseases, such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, polio, influenza, and pneumococcal infections. These vaccinations are part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP), and details are available on the NIP schedule.

Tailored Vaccination Recommendations

For travellers to the aforementioned countries, specific vaccinations are recommended:

  • Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B
  • Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap)

Additional Vaccinations Based on Risk and Travel Plans

Customised Protection Measures

Depending on factors like planned locations, duration of travel, and assessed risks, additional vaccinations to consider include:

  • Typhoid
  • Rabies
  • Japanese Encephalitis
  • Yellow Fever, especially for travel to regions of concern like South America or Central Africa

Timely Preparation and Action

Plan Ahead for a Safer Journey!

Preparing for travel well in advance is crucial, ideally 6-8 weeks before departure. However, if this window is missed, prompt action is necessary. Visit your travel clinic as soon as possible to seek advice from healthcare professionals and ensure adequate protection for your trip.