Spring break is just around the corner, which means many of us are checking off to-dos like tracking down passports, packing up luggage and double-checking travel arrangements. One item that’s easy to overlook: medical care.
SSM Health Travel Medicine provider Cara Moll, PA-C, recommends making a travel medicine appointment six to eight weeks before your departure because some immunizations needed for overseas destinations need several weeks to build up full protection.
“In addition to receiving immunizations and travel-related prescriptions at your appointment, you'll also receive the most current destination-specific information about health risks, disease outbreaks, and US State Department travel advisories,” says Moll. “We can help you learn how to avoid certain risks, how to best manage any pre-existing conditions, and what precautions need to be taken before and during your journey.”
Moll says it’s important to be prepared for possible illnesses and diseases that are prevalent in other regions of the world that many Americans may not think about.
“Your travel med consultation takes 30 to 60 minutes. We want to be thorough and make sure you’re getting what you need.”
What does a travel medicine consultation include?
Vaccinations
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid Fever
- Yellow Fever
- Meningococcal
- Rabies
- Japanese B Encephalitis
- Influenza
- Routine immunizations
Travel-related prescriptions
- Malaria Prophylaxis
- Travelers' Diarrhea
- Altitude Illness
- Motion Sickness
Is your trip coming up soon? Don’t worry – it’s not too late.
“Even if your trip is less than six to eight weeks away, it's still a good idea to make an appointment before you leave and get vaccinated,” says Moll. “Bring your immunization records to the appointment, and your detailed trip itinerary with you so that we can make the most appropriate recommendations.”
A fantastic trip starts with all the right information to stay healthy. Talk to your primary care provider to learn more or contact a travel medicine specialist today.
