Vaccination - Travel health (not just) for kids
Traveling the world can be a life-changing experience but it also requires careful planning, not just in the era of a pandemic. For us one essential aspect of that planning is getting vaccinated. Here are some things that we considered and that you should know about getting vaccinated for a world travel trip.
Consult your doctor or a travel health specialist
The first step in getting vaccinated for a world travel trip is to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist. They will review your medical history and advise you on which vaccinations are required or recommended for the countries you plan to visit. They can also provide information on any other health precautions you should take such as avoiding certain foods or drinks or taking malaria medication.
We actually got our vaccination consultation about 6 months prior departure and even though we could have started later, we wanted to make sure to have enough time on hand in case one of us might suffer from some side effects.Check the vaccination requirements for your destination
Once you know which vaccinations you need, check the vaccination requirements for your destination. Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations before you can enter (e.g. Uganda), and failing to comply with those requirements could result in your being denied entry or quarantined. You can find this information on the websites of the country's embassy or consulate or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
Plan ahead and get vaccinated early
It's important to plan ahead and get vaccinated early, as some vaccines require a series of shots or take time to become effective. In addition, some vaccines are in short supply, so you may need to schedule an appointment well in advance. Getting vaccinated early will give you time to build immunity and reduce your risk of getting sick while traveling.
Calculate with medical costs
Vaccines can be expensive and some insurance plans may not cover the full cost of all the vaccines you need. It's important to budget for the cost of vaccines when planning your trip and to factor this into your overall travel expenses. As a family of 5 we once had a surprisingly big bill when we had to pay in advance. Some health clinics or public health departments may offer low-cost or free vaccinations, so it's worth checking to see if you qualify for any such programs. Additionally, some travel clinics or pharmacies may offer discounts for bundled vaccines or for paying out of pocket. By planning ahead and budgeting for the cost of vaccines, you can ensure that you are fully prepared for your travel adventure.
Keep a record of your vaccinations
Make sure to keep a record of your vaccinations, as you may need to show proof of vaccination to enter certain countries. You can ask your doctor to provide you with an official vaccination record and there are smartphone apps like VaxAtlas or MyIR Mobile to keep track of your vaccinations. But be aware: some destinations want to see the international “yellow vaccination card”.
We are aware that there are different opinions on the topic of vaccination. While vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective in preventing the spread of diseases, some people may have concerns about their safety or effectiveness. While we did make negative vaccination experiences with Malik when he was still a baby, we believe, it's important to engage in constructive and respectful conversations about the topic and to seek out credible sources of information to make informed decisions about your health. Moreover it's important to keep in mind that vaccinations not only protect ourselves but also the communities we visit and can be a crucial tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases around the world. By getting vaccinated before your world travel trip, you can help protect yourself and others and enjoy a safer, healthier travel experience.
With these tips in mind, we wish you all the best as you embark on your travel adventures and hope that you prioritize your health and safety so that you can fully enjoy all that the world has to offer.
