Travel Health

If you’re planning a trip, you want it to be as safe, enjoyable and worry-free as possible. But infectious diseases are common in many countries. Illness can ruin a vacation and keep you confined to your room for the entire trip. In other cases, symptoms may only appear some time after you return from your trip. Some diseases have serious long-term effects or can be fatal.

Your risk of exposure to disease depends on your travel location, the type of travel you’re doing, the season, the duration of exposure and the recreational activities you do during your trip. Contaminated food and water are also common sources of infection. Insects can be another mode of transmission.

Immunization is the most important protection you can receive before taking a trip. Even though you may already be immunized against certain childhood diseases, some additional immunizations or medications may be needed when travelling to certain countries. You can help prevent serious travel-related illness by making sure that your immunization record is up-to-date, and by getting any additional vaccines that are recommended for the area you are planning to visit. Note: Most vaccines should be given at least 10 to 14 days before departure.

Note: The Eastern Ontario Health Unit only offers vaccines included in the publicly funded immunization schedule, and does not offer travel vaccines.

Visit the sites below for up-to-date information on recommended travel vaccines and medication, as well as health and safety tips for the area to which you are travelling.

www.travel.gc.ca – travel advice, health information and advisories for specific destinations

www.cdc.gov/travel – travel advice, health information and advisories for specific destinations

www.vaccines411.ca – directory of clinics/pharmacies that provide travel vaccines