Travel Vaccines and Health Advice

✈️ Travel Health Checklist: Stay Healthy Abroad

Whether you're going on a holiday or a business trip, preparing for your health before you travel is just as important as packing your bags.

👨‍⚕️ See Your Doctor Before You Go

• Visit your doctor at least 8 weeks before departure

• Get advice on:

  • Vaccinations

  • Prescriptions

  • Preventative health for your destination

💊 Medical Supplies & Medicines

• Bring enough of your medications for the whole trip

• Travel with medicines in original packaging

• Get a doctor’s letter listing your prescribed medications and dosages

• Check legality of your medicines in destination countries

• Pack a basic first aid kit, including:

  • Pain relievers, antiseptic, band-aids

  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, motion sickness tablets

  • Condoms and feminine hygiene products

🌍 Food, Water & Hygiene

• Check food and water safety in your destination

• Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth

• Avoid:

  • Ice in drinks

  • Uncooked foods (like salads)

  • Fruit you can’t peel

• Wash your hands frequently

🦟 Insects & Animals

• Protect against diseases like malaria, dengue, zika, and rabies

• Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves

• Avoid contact with animals, even if they appear friendly

• Ask your doctor about preventative medications or vaccines

❄️🌞 Climate Considerations

• Discuss climate-related risks with your doctor (e.g. heat, cold, altitude)

• Get a flu shot if traveling during flu season

• Build up your fitness if planning physical activity

🛫 Staying Healthy During Travel

• On long flights:

  • Drink plenty of water

  • Move your legs regularly to reduce DVT risk

• Ask your doctor if you’re at higher risk of DVT

• Talk to your doctor about motion sickness or jet lag remedies

💉 Vaccinations

• Many diseases can be prevented by vaccines

• Some countries require proof of vaccination for entry

• Discuss:

  • Routine childhood vaccine boosters

  • Country-specific vaccines like yellow fever, typhoid, or hepatitis A/B

🛡️ Travel Insurance

• Medicare doesn’t cover medical costs overseas

• Buy comprehensive travel insurance that includes:

  • Medical care and evacuation

  • Pre-existing conditions (declare them in writing)

  • Coverage for family members traveling with you

🏠 If You Get Sick After Returning

See a doctor if you experience:

• Fever

• Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea

• Breathing difficulties or cough

• Swollen glands

• Unexplained skin rashes

Mention your recent travel history.

🚨 Emergency Help Overseas

Call the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre:

• 📞 1300 555 135 (from within Australia)

• 🌍 +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas)

Visit Smartraveller.gov.au for more travel health advice.

Planning ahead can prevent illness, avoid delays, and keep your trip safe and enjoyable.