Act now to get travel immunizations

Travelers planning to explore exotic locales this spring and summer need to visit their doctor well in advance.

Dr. May Fan of Bend Memorial Clinic in Sisters suggests an appointment at least six to eight weeks before departure.

"This allows enough time for boosters in some cases, plus some vaccines are more effective after a few weeks," said Dr. Fan.

Bringing a copy of the travel itinerary is helpful, too. There are required vaccinations for many countries and travel in rural areas is generally more risky than sticking with the tourist route.

The most common vaccinations are for Hepatitis A, which is transmitted through food and water; yellow and typhoid fever; tetanus and polio boosters; flu and pneumonia shots, particularly if the traveler is over age 65. Travelers take malaria pills prior to departure.

"These vaccines are expensive and need to be budgeted for," said Dr. Fan.

Once the doctor knows the itinerary, she can estimate cost.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) posts required immunizations on its website, said Dr. Fan. Travelers can check there if they wish, but their doctor certainly will also.

Dr. Fan also recommends that travelers with any sort of chronic heart problem take copies of their EKG with them. Diabetics need to check with their travel agents to see what the requirements are for carrying medications and needles for insulin shots with them.

If one is heading for wild regions, Dr. Fan suggests sparing a thought about rabies and meningitis. An informed doctor can help a traveler manage these potential threats.

She also suggests that travelers in these areas leave instructions with an emergency contact that they are to be airlifted to a clean area should an accident or illness occur.

Travelers can carry pills to deal with diarrhea or altitude sickness, and antibiotics may also be prescribed to be used only if needed.

With all there is to think about when planning a trip, discussing it with the doctor should be high on the list, said Dr. Fan.