Planning a trip abroad? Don’t forget your passport, sunscreen and your vaccines. Whether you’re heading to a tropical paradise or a bustling city overseas, staying protected against vaccine preventable diseases is just as important as booking your flight.
When you travel internationally, you may be exposed to illnesses that are rare or nonexistent in Canada or the U.S. Diseases like yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A, and measles can pose serious health risks, especially in areas with limited healthcare access.
Ideally, book a visit with your healthcare provider or a travel health clinic at least 6 weeks before departure. This gives your body time to build immunity and ensures you can complete multidose vaccines if needed.
Your provider will:
- Review your immunization history
- Ensure your routine vaccines (like MMR, tetanus, and polio) are up to date
- Recommend destination specific vaccines based on your itinerary, activities, and health status
- Provide documentation if required (e.g., yellow fever certificate for certain countries)
Depending on your destination, you may need vaccines for:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Typhoid
- Yellow fever (required for entry into some countries)
- Rabies (for high-risk activities or remote travel)
- Japanese encephalitis (for extended stays in rural Asia)
Keep Your Records Handy
Download the CANImmunize app (Canada) or use a digital health wallet to manage your vaccine records. Bring copies when you travel and leave the originals at home.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers similar guidance. Visit Travelers’ Health | CDC to check vaccine requirements and travel health notices for your destination.
Pro Tip: Some vaccines aren’t covered by provincial or private insurance. Ask about costs and availability when booking your appointment.
For the latest updates and destination specific advice, visit Travel vaccinations – Travel.gc.ca
