Why is it important to get vaccinated before traveling?

• Vaccines can help protect you against a number of serious diseases and illnesses on your travels. Thankfully, conditions such as yellow fever, typhoid fever and polio are rare in the USA, but are still common in many developing countries. Vaccines ensure you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

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How far in advance should I get vaccines before I travel?

• You should get vaccines at least 10-14 days before you travel to ensure your body has enough time to develop an immune response to the vaccine. The yellow fever vaccine must be administered at least 10 days before arriving in that country. Good planning is essential, and getting vaccines months before your trip can help you avoid squeezing in vaccines last minute.

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What vaccines do I need for Africa, South America or Asia?

• Each country has different recommendations on what vaccines you should get for your trip. We use current CDC guidelines to ensure you receive the most up to date care before your travel. In general, you should be vaccinated against conditions such as Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Polio and Typhoid Fever. Some countries have risk of Yellow Fever so this vaccine is recommended depending what country you are traveling to and/or traveling from.

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Whether you are going on an African safari, hiking the Inca trail to Machu Picchu, visiting the Taj Mahal, cruising down the Nile, birdwatching in the Amazon rainforest or scaling the Great Wall of China; each unique experience is as unique as the vaccines you need.

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It is important to speak to our trained staff before you travel to get the most up to date advice.

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Do I really need yellow fever vaccination?

• The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for people 9 months and older who are traveling to some countries in Africa or South America where there is risk of yellow fever. Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before entering that country which we can provide as the “yellow card”.

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Which country is the yellow fever vaccine mandatory?

• Each country has different recommendations and our staff use current CDC guidelines to give the most accurate advice. Many countries in central and western Africa require the yellow fever vaccine for entry such as Ghana, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cameroon and Uganda. Many other countries recommend the yellow fever vaccine to ensure your protection against the virus and some countries require the vaccine depending on previous countries you have visited.​

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How long does the yellow fever vaccine last?

• At this point of time one dose of yellow fever vaccine provides long lasting protection for life. Some travelers may require a booster in particular circumstances.

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Do I need malaria tablets?

• Malaria is still common in many countries. Malaria is spread by mosquitoes and can be a life-threatening condition. Your risk in each country can be assessed by our staff to ensure you are adequately protected against malaria. Malaria can be prevented by taking tablets and can be supplied during your travel consultation.

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I have Medi-Cal. Does Medi-Cal cover travel vaccines?

• In general, Medi-Cal covers vaccines for conditions that are commonly found in the US.

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I work Monday to Friday, are you open weekends?

• Yes! Travel health can be provided during Saturday opening hours. Travel health appointments can be pre-arranged outside of regular business hours and on Sunday. House calls are also available.