Travel Health and Vaccines: How to Prepare for an International Trip

Book the appointment as soon as your itinerary is firm: at least a month out, and ideally four to six weeks. Some vaccines need more than one dose or take time to build protection, and yellow fever vaccine is only given at registered clinics, which can be booked up.

A travel-medicine clinician (your own doctor, a travel clinic or a pharmacy that offers travel vaccines) looks at your exact route, season, activities and health history. Two people going to the same country can get different advice: a city business trip to Nairobi and a two-week bush safari carry different risks. Bring your itinerary, vaccination record and a list of your medications.

Think of vaccines in three layers. Your clinician decides what applies to you; the CDC’s destination pages show the current recommendations for every country.

Yellow fever is the vaccine most likely to be an entry requirement rather than just a recommendation. A few countries require it of every arriving traveler; many more require it only if you arrive from, or transit through, a country with yellow fever risk. A Kenya-to-Tanzania safari is the classic itinerary where this catches people out.

Proof is the International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis, the “yellow card.” It becomes valid 10 days after vaccination, and under World Health Organization rules a single dose now counts for life. Keep the original with your passport. If you can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons, ask your clinician about a medical waiver letter.

Malaria, dengue, chikungunya and other mosquito-borne diseases are among the most common serious health risks in the tropics. In malaria areas your clinician may prescribe preventive tablets; the choice depends on your destination, your health and how long you’re away. Our safari health guide covers Africa in detail.

Usually, yes, but check first. Carry medicines in their original labeled containers in your carry-on, bring a copy of each prescription showing the generic name, and pack extra in case of delays. Some common U.S. prescriptions, including certain ADHD stimulants and strong painkillers, are restricted or banned in countries such as Japan and the United Arab Emirates, so check the destination embassy’s rules well before you go.

Pack a small kit as well: pain and fever reducer, antihistamine, oral rehydration salts, motion-sickness tablets, blister care and any travelers’ diarrhea treatment your clinician recommends.

Often not fully. Original Medicare generally doesn’t pay for care outside the U.S., and many private plans cover emergencies abroad only partly or expect you to pay up front and claim later. Medical evacuation from a remote island or safari camp is extremely expensive without cover.

Check your plan, then consider travel medical and evacuation coverage; our guide to travel insurance explains the options. Business travelers should know their employer’s duty of care assistance number before they leave.