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When traveling far and overseas, it is often required to get a vaccination before entering different parts of the world. Living in certain parts of the world, you can build up immunity to certain types of diseases that you are exposed to. So if you aren’t from there, make sure to look into the types of vaccinations that are required.
What are Travel Vaccinations
Travel vaccines are something people get before visiting particular areas in the world to help prevent them from getting any common illnesses at that location. The vaccinations work because it is putting the specific parts of the germs from the disease in your body that will later help protect.
You will not get the disease from the shot because the viruses or bacteria are severely weakened or dead. Your body will react by making antibodies that treat disease. This way if you are exposed, the vaccine will protect you from it.
The Yellow Fever Vaccine
Yellow fever is the only mandatory vaccine required by certain countries. It is also recommended by the CDC to protect your health and to attempt to keep that disease from coming into the country you are traveling to.
Recommended Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations are not necessarily required by the country you are entering, although strongly suggested by CDC guidelines. The goal is to protect travelers from illnesses that may not be in the United States.
An example is the typhoid vaccination, protecting you from contracting typhoid: a disease spread through contaminated water and food. It is most common in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa.
If You are Not Leaving the Country
Not all trips require you to get a vaccine. If you are staying in your country, there is no need for any unusual vaccinations.
You do not have to be concerned unless you are going out of the country, and that is when you should look more into it. Even if you are just taking a small getaway to look at homes for sale in Vancouver, do your research.
Routine Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations are the standard vaccines for kids and adults that are recommended for wherever you live. When you go to your doctor, they will most likely let you know when your next shot should be and all of the details behind it.
Talk to Your Doctor
Although you might be used to calling in your doctor for a sore throat or twisted ankle, do not hesitate to ask them about vaccinations before you go on a trip. They are certain to know more about the subject and will surely help and inform you of everything.
Before traveling domestically or internationally, finding out what you are going to be exposed to is essential. To take preliminary action, make sure to do research and talk to your doctor so you can get the proper types of vaccinations. The last thing you want is a foreign disease and to be unwell during your travels. Happy travels!
Krystle Cook – the creator of Home Jobs by MOM – put her psychology degree on a shelf and dived into a pile of diapers and dishes instead. She is a wife and mother to two rambunctious boys, sweating it out in her Texas hometown. She loves cooking, DIY home projects, and family fun activities.
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