August is National Immunization Awareness Month, a perfect time to emphasize that travel vaccines are very important in today's global community. The increase in global travel brings an increased risk for contracting diseases that are all but eliminated in the United States but are still present, especially in undeveloped countries.

PREPARATION IS KEY
The savvy traveler prepares for each trip: arranging for airline and hotel reservations, tour itineraries and more.  Taking prudent health precautions prior to departure should be just as important.

VACCINATION CHECKLIST
Globex travel health, a center for travel health and immunization needs, suggests an early visit to your medical provider.

• Set up an appointment at least 4 to 8 weeks before your trip
• Most vaccines take time to become effective in your body
• Some vaccines are given in a series over a period of days or weeks
• If it is less than 4 weeks before departure, see your doctor as you might still benefit from shots or medications and other information to protect yourself from illness and injury while traveling

CDC VACCINATION INFORMATION
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) divides travel vaccines into the following categories:

• Routine Vaccines are typically received during childhood in the U.S., although some require boosters as adults or prior to international travel. The CDC recommends all persons be current on routine immunizations.

• Recommended Vaccines protect against diseases that occur in other parts of the world. They are determined by a traveler's destination, itinerary, length of stay, age, overall health status and immunization history.
  
  
• Required Vaccines, For example, World Health Organization requirements include Yellow Fever for certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America.

INVALUABLE PUBLICATION
The World Health Organization booklet International travel and health, offers a wealth of knowledge, ranging from tips to prevent or reduce adverse health consequences, environmental health risks and diseases, to injuries and violence.  Order it at http://www.who.int/ith/en/ 

GET PACKING!
FamilyDoctor.org offers all sorts of helpful hints, including a list of things to include in a first aid kit for traveling:

• Prescription medicines, in original containers.
• Medicine for diarrhea and upset stomach.
• Pain medicines, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, naproxen, ibuprofen or ketoprofen.
• Decongestants and antihistamines for allergies, preferably ones that don't cause sleepiness.
• Antibiotic ointment, adhesive bandages, hydrocortisone cream, moleskin for blisters and sunscreen with at least 15 SPF and lip balm.
• Medicine for motion sickness, such as dimenhydrinate, an anti nausea drug such as promethazine. Acetazolamide may help prevent altitude sickness.
• Scissors, tweezers, nail clippers; pocket knife, thermometer and mirror (do not put in carryon luggage).

MEDICAL TREATMENT ABROAD
The U.S. State Department advises that you learn what your health insurance covers overseas.

• If your policy provides coverage outside the U.S., take your insurance policy identity card and a claim form with you.
• Although many health insurance companies pay "customary and reasonable" hospital costs abroad, very few pay for medical evacuation back to the U.S.
• Medical evacuation can cost $10,000 or more, depending on your location and medical condition.

Planning ahead and taking precautions can substantially reduce health risks associated with travel. Ask for information, take necessary precautions and then enjoy your journey!