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Most of the common
travel or routine vaccinations can be administered simultaneously,
although certain vaccines may cause a minor, local reaction if given with
other vaccines. If possible, these vaccines should be given on separate
occasions, unless time constraints or financial considerations dictate
otherwise. Importantly, live vaccines should be administered on the same
day as other live vaccines, or separated by one month because the
effectiveness of the recipient’s immune response may be prejudiced.
Inactivated vaccines can be given at the same time with no effect on
immune response.
Vaccinations fall
into three categories – routine,
recommended
and required
ROUTINE
Most of the vaccinations that are routinely administered in childhood
require a periodic booster to maintain effective immunity. Pre-travel
boosters of childhood vaccinations are recommended for those who have
failed to follow the regular schedule during their adult lives. Some
older adults who may not have been vaccinated in childhood may need a
primary course or immunisation.
Routine
vaccinations include:
- Diphtheria/tetanus
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
- Hepatitis B
- HIB (Haemophilus influenzae
type b)
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella
- Poliomyelitis (IPV)
- Varicella
RECOMMENDED
Vaccines are recommended to travellers according to criteria that
includes the type, length and nature of their itinerary, an the countries
to be visited, as well as personal considerations.
Vaccinations which
may be recommended include:
- Cholera
- Influenza
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Japanese Encephalitis
- Lyme disease*
- Meningococcal Meningitis
- Pneumococcal disease
- Rabies
- Tick-borne Encephalitis*
- Tuberculosis
- Typhoid fever
- Plague
* not available in Australia.
REQUIRED
The only vaccination that is mandatory under International Health
Regulations is Yellow fever.
However, while vaccination is considered mandatory to protect a country
that is vulnerable to importation of the disease, it may also be
recommended to protect a traveller visiting areas where there is a risk
of infection.
Some countries may
require proof of Yellow fever vaccination before a visa will be granted,
or as a condition of entry. This condition applies to all travellers who
arrive from a Yellow fever endemic country (including airport transits).
An International
Vaccination Certificate (which is in French and English) is required to
denote approved vaccination. Vaccination is only available from approved
Yellow fever providers. As Yellow fever is a live vaccine, it should be
administered on the same day as other live vaccines.
HAJJ - Vaccination
against meningococcal disease is required by Saudi Arabia for pilgrim
visiting Mecca during the Hajj. It may also be required by some countries
for returning pilgrims. Proof of vaccination against Meningococcal
disease is required by Australian pilgrims applying for a visa.
More information on specific routine, recommended or
required vaccinations will be provided during your Travelvax
consultation. Call 1300 360 164 for the location of your nearest clinic.
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