Travel Immunisations

Planning an overseas trip? Check your vaccinations before you go.

Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a cruise, a backpacking trip or an overseas work placement, it’s important to consider your health before you travel.

Depending on your destination and travel plans, you may be exposed to infectious

diseases that are less common in Australia. Some of these diseases can be prevented through vaccination.

Your travel plans are a good opportunity to check that your routine vaccinations are up to date and find out whether any additional vaccinations are recommended for your

destination.

When should I arrange travel vaccinations?

Ideally, arrange a travel health appointment 6 to 12 weeks before departure.

Some vaccines require more than one dose, and your body needs time to develop immunity. Planning ahead also allows time to review your vaccination history, discuss any health concerns and arrange any vaccines you may need.

If your departure date is approaching, it is still worth seeking advice. Some protection may be possible even when there is less time available.

Which travel vaccinations might I need?

There is no single vaccination schedule that applies to every traveller. The

recommendations depend on your individual circumstances and where you are travelling.

Your doctor may consider:

Your destination: Different countries and regions have different infectious disease
Your itinerary: Rural travel, extended stays, certain activities and visits to remote areas may affect your risk.
Your vaccination history: You may need a booster or vaccinations you have not previously
Your age and health: Your age, existing medical conditions and immune status can affect which vaccines are recommended.
Pregnancy or plans for pregnancy: Some vaccines may not be suitable during pregnancy, so discuss your plans with your doctor.
The time of year: Seasonal conditions can influence the risk of certain

Depending on your destination and circumstances, vaccinations may be recommended for diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis or rabies. These are examples only. Not every traveller will need these vaccines.

Hawkins Medical Clinic also provides yellow fever vaccination. Yellow fever vaccination may be recommended for travel to certain countries, and some

destinations require proof of vaccination for entry. Your doctor can advise whether vaccination is recommended or required for your itinerary.

Some countries also have specific vaccination entry requirements. Your doctor can help you understand whether vaccination or proof of vaccination may be required for your trip.

Check your routine vaccinations too

Travel is a good time to check that you and your family are up to date with routine vaccinations.

Depending on your age and vaccination history, this may include vaccinations against measles, mumps and rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, chickenpox and influenza.

Some infections that are uncommon in Australia continue to circulate in other parts of the world. Being up to date with routine vaccinations helps reduce your risk of illness while travelling and of bringing preventable infections home.

You can check your vaccination history through your Medicare-linked myGov account or the myGov app.

What should I bring to my appointment?

To help your doctor assess your needs, be ready to discuss:

Your destinations, including any countries where you will be stopping in
Your departure date and how long you will be
The type of travel you are planning, including rural stays, outdoor activities or extended
Your vaccination history, if
Any medical conditions, allergies, regular medicines, pregnancy or plans for

It can also be helpful to check the Australian Government’s Smartraveller advice for each destination before your appointment.

Are travel vaccinations covered by Medicare?

Some travel vaccinations may not be covered by the National Immunisation Program and may need to be purchased privately. Costs vary depending on the vaccine and where it is obtained.

Depending on the vaccine, you may need a prescription and may need to collect it from a pharmacy before returning for vaccination. Vaccine availability and arrangements can vary, so ask about costs and the process when booking your appointment.

Book ahead

If you are planning to travel overseas, contact Hawkins Medical Clinic to discuss arranging a travel health appointment well before your departure date.

Early planning gives you time to review your vaccinations and consider the health risks associated with your destination. Your GP can also provide advice on other travel-related health concerns, including altitude sickness.