Vaccines are essential steps towards a healthy trip.
Start planning your vaccinations a few months ahead of your departure date. A travel doctor can help you decide which vaccinations you require depending on where you are traveling.
Most Common Vaccines (as required for Africa)
Vaccination |
Validity |
Cost (CDN) |
|---|---|---|
| Diphtheria/Tetanus/Polio | 10 years | Free |
| MMR (Measels/Mups/Rubella) | Life | Free |
| Hepatitis A/B | Life | $145 |
| Typhoid | 3 years | $40 |
| Meningococcal | 3 years | $100 |
| Yellow Fever | 10 years | $80 |
| Rabies | 3 years | $330 |
Diphtheria/Tetanus/Polio
These three vaccines are usually given in one combined shot.
MMR (Measels/Mups/Rubella)
These three vaccines are usually given in one combined shot.
Hepatitis A/B
These two vaccines are usually given in one combined shot. The combined vaccine is usually given in three injections over a six month period. If short on time, an accelerated version is available.
Hepatitis A is caused by a virus that is found throughout the world. Low risk areas include North America, Northern and Western Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. The virus is spread to other people mainly through the body wastes of someone with hepatitis A. Improperly treated waste can contaminate water supplies, shellfish, fruit, vegetables and other kinds of food. To kill the virus, the water must be boiled for at least one minute and the food thoroughly cooked.
Hepatitis B is a serious infection and common throughout the world. This virus causes damage to the liver and can range from mild to life threatening. Symptoms can range from mild to severe sickness with 1% of infected people dying from the virus. Some people that are infected with hepatitis B virus become carriers and may infect others. Hepatitis B can be transmitted sexually, sharing needles or through a blood transfusion. The hepatitis B vaccination gives about 90% protection.
Typhoid
The bacteria causing typhoid is found all over the world and spread through contaminated food and water. The best way to avoid this disease is to make sure that the food and water are safe. The vaccine does not protect you completely against typhoid fever.
Meningococcal Meningitis
The bacteria causing meningococcal meningitis get into the fluid around the brain and spinal cord. The disease spreads like a cold, through direct contact with an infected person.
Yellow Fever
This serious disease is caused by a virus that is spread by mosquitoes in the tropical areas of Africa and South America. One injection protects you almost 100% for 10 years, however, it is still important to take the appropriate mosquito precautions. Some countries require proof of this vaccination. In these situations, you must have an injection at least 10 days prior to visiting that country.
Rabies
This vaccine is given in three increments. This fatal disease is caused by a virus that is transmitted by the saliva of a rabid mammal. Transmission usually occurs through a bite, scratch, lick of an open wound or more rarely through saliva landing on a mucous membrane such as an eye or mouth. Rabies can be prevented by immunization. However, even if immunized and you are bitten by a mammal suspect of having rabies, you need two further doses of vaccine immediately to ensure high antibody levels.
For more information we suggest you consult your local travel health clinic. For us this was the Vancouver Travel Clinic or visit sites such as the IAMAT (International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers) or the World Health Organization.