Travel Vaccinations: What You Need Before Leaving the Country

Planning an international trip? Whether you’re heading to a tropical paradise, a bustling city, or a remote adventure destination, ensuring you’re vaccinated is just as important as packing your passport. Many countries require or recommend certain vaccines to protect travelers from preventable diseases. Here’s everything you need to know about travel vaccinations before you take off.

Why Travel Vaccines Matter

Traveling exposes you to new environments, different bacteria, and diseases that may not be common in the U.S. Getting vaccinated before your trip helps:

  • Protect Your Health – Some countries have high risks of diseases like yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A.
  • Prevent the Spread of Disease – You can carry infections back home, even if you don’t feel sick.
  • Meet Entry Requirements – Some destinations require proof of vaccination for entry.

Vaccination Requirements for Popular Travel Destinations

Every country has different vaccination recommendations based on local disease risks. Here are some common vaccines required or recommended for popular destinations:

1. Mexico & Central America

2. South America (Including Brazil, Peru, Colombia)

3. Africa (Including Kenya, Ghana, South Africa)

4. Asia (Including Thailand, India, Japan, China)

  • Recommended: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Japanese Encephalitis (for long stays in rural areas), Rabies
  • Mosquito Protection Needed: Malaria prevention for some regions

5. Europe (Including France, Italy, UK, Germany)

6. Middle East (Including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Israel)

Some countries may ask for an International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) as proof of certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever. Be sure to check entry requirements before you travel.

Where to Get Travel Vaccines in Los Angeles

If you need travel vaccinations before your trip, it’s best to get them at least 4–6 weeks before departure to ensure protection. Here’s where to get travel vaccines in LA:

1. Olympia Plaza Pharmacy

We offer a wide range of vaccines for travel destinations all around the world. If you have a specific destination and aren’t sure about the requirements and recommendations of that location, please reach out to our team! For more information, visit immunize-la.com. Your doctor may also be able to provide some vaccinations, as well as review your health history and recommend necessary vaccinations. However, not all primary care offices carry travel vaccines, so check in advance.

How to Prepare for a Healthy Trip Abroad

Along with getting vaccinated, take these extra steps to stay healthy during your travels:

  • Check Travel Advisories: Visit the CDC’s travel health website for the latest health alerts and vaccine recommendations.
  • Pack Travel Essentials: Bring hand sanitizer, insect repellent (for mosquito-borne illnesses), and a small first aid kit.
  • Drink Bottled or Purified Water: In some countries, tap water can carry bacteria that cause travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Avoid Undercooked Food: Stick to well-cooked meals, and be cautious with street food.
  • Consider Travel Insurance: Some plans cover medical emergencies abroad, including access to healthcare if you get sick while traveling.

Final Thoughts

Vaccines are a crucial part of international travel, keeping you protected from potential health risks while ensuring you meet entry requirements for certain destinations. If you’re planning a trip abroad, schedule your travel vaccinations early to stay worry-free during your journey.

At Olympia Plaza Pharmcy, we offer a range of travel vaccines to help you stay safe wherever you go. Call us at (323) 937-2590 or stop by today to get expert advice and the immunizations you need before your next adventure!