Whether you’re planning an escape to somewhere warm in the winter or making an itinerary for a prolonged backpacking trip, it’s important to include travel vaccines on your pre-trip to-do list.

Common travel vaccines can vary depending on the destination and the specific health risks associated with that region. Below are some of the most common travel vaccines and the destinations for which they may be required or recommended.

Hepatitis A and B

It is often recommended that those traveling to developing countries get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B. This is especially important where there is a higher risk of food and waterborne diseases.

Typhoid

If you’re traveling to an area with poor sanitation or where typhoid is endemic, such as parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, you’ll need to get vaccinated for typhoid.

Yellow fever

A yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travel to certain parts of Africa and South America, where yellow fever is endemic. In some countries, it is required, and a valid International Certificate of Vaccination is often needed for entry.

Rabies

A rabies vaccine is recommended for travelers to regions where rabies is prevalent, especially if they plan to spend extended periods outdoors or in rural areas.

Japanese encephalitis

Those traveling to parts of Asia, especially rural or agricultural areas where the virus is transmitted through mosquito bites, should get a vaccine for Japanese encephalitis.

Meningococcal

A meningococcal vaccine may be required for travelers visiting the "meningitis belt" in sub-Saharan Africa and during certain pilgrimage events in Saudi Arabia.

Polio

A polio vaccine will be required or recommended for travel to regions with active polio transmission. Check with local health authorities for the latest updates on polio-affected areas.

Cholera

Cholera immunizations are rarely required but may be recommended for travelers visiting regions with ongoing cholera outbreaks or areas with inadequate sanitation.

Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

MMR vaccines are considered routine in Canada. It's essential to be up-to-date when traveling to any destination, as measles outbreaks can occur in various parts of the world.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (TDAP)

TDAP vaccines are also routine, but ensuring you are up-to-date is crucial for any international travel.

Influenza

Seasonal influenza vaccines are recommended for travelers during the flu season, regardless of the destination.

Varicella (Chickenpox)

Individuals who have not had chickenpox or the varicella vaccine should consider getting immunized if they are traveling to areas with a risk of exposure.

Not sure which vaccines you need?

It's important to note that vaccination requirements and recommendations can change over time, so travelers should consult with a healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist to receive personalized advice based on their destination, individual health, and the most current information regarding vaccine requirements. 

Additionally, some vaccines may be required for entry into certain countries, while others are recommended based on the traveler's activities and planned itinerary.

View the full up-to-date database of travel vaccine requirements and recommendations.

Where to get travel vaccines in Kelowna, BC

Lakeside Medicine Centre Pharmacy offers many of the most common travel vaccines. To make it easy to determine which vaccines you need, we’ve implemented an online pre-travel health assessment form you can submit prior to a consultation.

Learn how to book your immunizations on our vaccines page.