Important vaccinations before you travel

Travel vaccinations you need before you go

Travel vaccinations help you stay healthy by protecting you against life-threatening diseases.  It is a good idea to start early since there may be several types of vaccinations required depending upon where you are traveling.   Some vaccinations require 2 to 3 doses which must be spaced out over several months.  You can schedule an appointment at Germantown Primary Care Associates in Germantown MD to get everything you need before you travel.  There are three types of travel vaccinations: required, routine, and recommended. 

Required vaccinations for travel

Some countries require meningitis and yellow fever vaccinations before you will be able to cross their borders.     When you enter a country requiring one of these vaccinations, you must be able to show proof of recent vaccinations. 

Routine vaccinations for travel

Routine immunizations and vaccinations start at birth and then are updated as necessary throughout your lifetime.  When you attend your travel medicine appointment, bring your immunization record with you.  Our physicians can then determine if you need any booster vaccinations.   Routine vaccinations include polio, TDAP, Varicella, MMR, Rotavirus, Pneumonia, Hepatitis B, Meningitis and Hepatitis A. 

Recommended vaccinations for travel

Depending upon your destination, your age, health status and the details of your travel itinerary, there may be other vaccinations, including rabies, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, typhoid and polio that your Germantown Primary Care Associates travel physician will recommend. 

Get prepared

In Germantown MD, the physicians and medical staff at Germantown Primary Care Associates can provide advice and guidance on all travel vaccinations.  When you are ready to travel internationally, call Germantown Primary Care Associates for a travel medicine appointment and make sure you have all the necessary travel vaccinations.