Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which vaccines are required?
Yellow Fever vaccination and Menningitis (only in Saudia Arabia) are the only vaccines that are required by some countries for entry.
What is a Recommended Vaccine?
The CDC divides vaccines into 3 catagories, required, recommended and routine. Recommended vaccines are those recommended to protect the traveler from contracting a disease that is endemic in a particular country, region or city and to prevent transmission of diseases back the travelers home country. Also routine vaccinations are given to Adults who need to update or boost their childhood vaccinations.
How do I know which immunizations I should get?
It depends on mulitple factors, e.g. your exact destination/s, age, health issues, allergies, and overall risk acceptance. This is where we can help. Travel Health Vaccines providesaccurate, up-to-date information which is customized to your travel plans and individual health history. Our services include recommended immunizations, prescriptions for travel-related medications (e.g malaira or traveler’s diarrhea) specific precautions, and information on the nearest hospital for emergency care. Websites that can provide general information are the www.CDC.gov/travel and www.WHO.int/en
How far in advance should I schedule my first shot?
Two months if possible.However some vaccines e.g. Hepatitis A you can get just before you depart. The key is to plan as far ahead as possible as some of the vaccinations required a series of shots for full protection and others require for you to stay in the U.S. for 10 days after the injection e.g Yellow Fever ( The YELLOW FEVER vaccine may be required to cross certain international borders; in this case, the vaccine should be given at least 10 days before travel, and a stamped vaccine certificate will be issued to you by Travel Health Vaccines, a certified Yellow Fever Immunization Center.
Do most health insurances cover “travel vaccinations”?
In general most “travel vaccinations” are not covered by insurances. However there are always exceptions and we will provide you with information including standard insurance codes so that you can determine if your particular plan will cover it. However, Routine vaccinations e.g. Hep A and B etc. are usually covered by insurances.
Is there a charge for a travel consultation or office visit?
Only if your trip includes itinerary-based travel health advice, prescriptions for travel medications and recommended vaccinations with required information (VIS) and documentation (Yellow Fever Stamp and Immunization Record) /$50.00
Why do I need an appointment?
Each client gets individualized attention and consultation which can last up 30- 60 minutes depending on travel plans, number of immunizations needed. How to take travel meds and discussion on food, water , insect and environment precautions. However if you just need a quick flu shot or a booster of Hep A, B or Twinrix most of the time we can provide same-day appointments.