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(Sometimes countries even require proof of specific vaccinations.)
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How did I not get sick!
Or, waitwas not getting the hepatitis A shot actually why I got such bad abdominal pain in Egypt…. Below, well dive into what you should know about the most common vaccines recommended for travelers.
(It sincerely couldnt be simpler.)
If you put it off (it happens!
As a rule of thumb: If youre not sure, get it, she says.
Heres what to know about how to keep yourself safe during your exciting international travels.
In terms of what these diseases are, lets start withhepatitis A.
Its averycontagious liver infection thats transmitted through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person.
It is the most recommended vaccine for travel, Dr. Sammon says.
Hepatitis Bis a much more serious liver infection that can be deadly.
Hep B is not as common as hep A, but its much more serious.
The good news: Hepatitis B is entirely preventable by vaccines.
Typhoid fever spreads through contaminated food and water, and, according to Dr. Sammon, itsveryeasy to get.
In certain people, it can cause brain and spinal cord swelling and death.
This disease isnt something to mess around with.
People who get it typically getverysick, and in certain cases, it can be life-threatening.
It takes just one quickmosquito biteto contract the disease.
Fever, headache, and chills are the telltale symptoms.
travelers), she adds.
Mosquito-borne illnesses are a massive public health threat, yet theyre extremely preventable, Dr. Sammon says.
While yellow fever and malaria have safe, effective immunizations, many other mosquito-borne diseases dont.
Your best bet for staying safe from mosquitos:DEETand picaridin.
Picaridin is a newer alternative that, while not as extensively studied as DEET, is just as effective.
These products essentially hide you so the insect cant smell you.
Dr. Sammon recommends dousing yourself in these products when traveling to buggy places.
Another option ispermethrin, an insecticide that repels mosquitoes.
At the very least, check out what the CDC says and talk to a pharmacist.
