In 2005, more than 63.5 million Americans traveled abroad, setting a new record for international travel from the United States. While the average traveler made the decision to leave the country 92 days before a trip, many waited until the last minute to seek advice, preventive medications and immunizations suggested for international travel. Families traveling outside the country may not be aware that they can be exposed to infections not commonly seen in the United States, but they can get help prior to departure to keep them healthy and safe on their adventures.
“We strongly recommend that international travelers make an appointment more than one month before leaving the United States,” explains Dr. Bonnie M. Word, director of Texas Children's Travel Medicine Clinic. “Some vaccines require multiple doses to be effective while others must be administered at least 10 days prior to arrival into a country. By scheduling an appointment early, the patient also will have time to discuss other potential health-related risks in the country that will be visited.”
For example, Typhoid Fever is one of the more common vaccinations given to adults and children who are traveling abroad. Typhoid Fever causes fever, diarrhea and – depending on the severity – dehydration. Those who receive the vaccine and information on how the disease is spread are much less likely to contract it while vacationing.
At the Texas Children’s Travel Medicine Clinic, in addition to vaccines, Word and her colleagues discuss with families:
- Activities that will be undertaken during the trip.
- Information on preventing insect and animal bites.
- Ways to avoid acquiring infections from food and water.
- Information about diseases that may encounter for which there are no vaccines.
Word also recommends that parents with children who have a chronic medical condition schedule a meeting with a physician before making any definite international travel plans. “The child’s underlying illness may make him or her more susceptible to other infections and we may or may not be able to offer some vaccinations,” she says.
Packing for your adventure
For international travel, parents should pack a copy of all immunization records and check with their insurance carrier for international care restrictions.
A family medical kit, especially when traveling to non-English speaking countries where miscommunication may occur when trying to buy medicine, is a must for this vacation. Some items to include are antihistamines, decongestants, fever reducing agents, anti-diarrhea products, anti-constipation medication and any prescription medicines taken on a regular basis.
Insect repellent is a definite necessity when vacationing to certain parts of the world, says Word, especially for protection against mosquitoes and ticks known for transmitting infectious diseases such as malaria.
Don’t leave your car seat behind. Using a car seat and always keeping it properly secured can increase a child's health and safety on an international flight and when traveling by car once you arrive at your destination.
Finally, consider packing some favorite healthy snacks for the flight in order to avoid any potential problems with finicky eaters.
About Texas Children’s Travel Medicine Clinic
Texas Children’s Travel Medicine Clinic provides travel advice and vaccines for families – adults and children – planning international travel. Our specialists are up to date on the latest requirements from the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help keep families safe and healthy when traveling. The recommended vaccines and medications are always in stock at the clinic.
Because some vaccines require multiple doses, our specialists advise families to make appointments one month in advance of your travel date, if possible. However, you can still receive protection two weeks prior to departure.
