International Travel Tips For July 2019

If you’ve been flying during the past few weeks and the airport feels busier than normal, you’re not imagining it.   

The US Transportation Security Administration experienced its busiest day ever on May 24, 2019, screening a total of 2,792,525 passengers and crew members. 

With many of these passengers traveling abroad, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health Branch published updated advice about which medications and vaccines international travelers should consider before departure. 

“Many diseases that we don’t see in the US are still common in other countries, so it’s important to receive education and be vaccinated for the diseases you may encounter when traveling internationally,” advised Holly Hawbaker, pharmacy intern for Brookshires Grocery Company.

“Please contact your doctor or pharmacy at least one month ahead of your trip to learn what you need to do to protect yourself and stay healthy.”

You can find some of the CDC’s most frequently asked travel questions and responses.

1. What vaccines or medicines should I get before traveling to my destination?

• Use the CDC destination tool to find the vaccines and medications you need for your next trip, and schedule an appointment with a travel medicine specialist at least 1 month before traveling to get recommended or required vaccines and medicines.

2. If I am going on a cruise that will stop in several countries, which vaccines should I get for each country?

• You should be up-to-date on routine vaccines, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus, and flu shot. Depending on where you’re going and what activities you plan, other vaccines may be recommended.
• Some countries may require you to provide proof that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever by presenting an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis when entering the country

3. What are the prices of vaccines needed for travel outside the United States?

• Vaccine prices vary by provider and insurance coverage. You should be able to get routine vaccines from your primary healthcare provider, travel clinic, or health department. 
• And, the CDC’s Vaccines For Children program offers vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay. Additional financial support programs can be found at Vaccine Discounts. 

4. Which medications can I travel with?

• When packing for trips abroad, don’t forget there may be special considerations for bringing your prescriptions and other medicines with you. Some medicines that are commonly prescribed or available over-the-counter in the USA can be illegal in other countries. Check with the embassy or consulate in the country you will be visiting to make sure your medicines are permitted in that country.

5.  Check your measle immunity prior to departure.

• The CDC says you should schedule a travel counseling session at least 1 month before departing abroad to receive any needed vaccinations or extra medications. And, if you are unsure of your current measles immunity, this CDC app can help you self quality a need another MMR vaccination.

The CDC says you should schedule a travel counseling session at least 1 month before you go to get any needed or extra medications.

>>>Schedule travel counseling session with Vax-Before-Travel <<<

Additionally, you can easily enroll in a free Travel Alert newsletter. 

Furthermore, the US Department of State suggests enrolling with the nearest US embassy or consulate through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). It’s a FREE service that allows US citizens traveling or living abroad to receive the latest security updates for their location.

If you need to contact a US embassy or consulate, call 1-888-407-4747 (from the US or Canada) OR 00-1-202-501-4444 (from other countries).

Local travel pharmacies can offer advice on which medications, travel supplies, and first aid kits are best for your trip.

And pack medications in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost.