Protect yourself and your family while traveling abroad. 

With the start of the New Year you may be making travel plans, whether you are looking to study abroad, enjoy a tropical spring break or travel internationally with the family. Before you start jet-setting do you know whether you may require certain medications or immunizations first? Having traveled on mission trips throughout Peru, Guatemala, and Beliz, our Lake Orion, MI-based doctor Dr. Joseph Gorz understands the importance of being fully inoculated before heading to certain areas of the world. Here’s what you should know,

Before You Go… 

It’s important that you and every family member are up-to-date on all of the CDC’s recommended vaccines. If there is a vaccination that you or your child hasn’t received, our Lake Orion, MI, board-certified doctor will be able to go through your detailed medical history to find out what vaccines are required before you start adventuring.

Furthermore, there are certain shots that are required in many countries. Check the list, pick your destination and find out if you need any vaccinations or medications beforehand. Common vaccinations include:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid and paratyphoid fever
• Yellow fever
• Meningococcal disease
• Rabies
• Japanese encephalitis

What is Zika? 

Over the last couple of years, we’ve heard a lot of reports about a viral infection known as Zika. Zika is similar to dengue or Yellow fever. It’s transmitted through mosquito bites. Symptoms of Zika are usually mild, lasting days to weeks. Most people won’t require hospitalization or treatment; however, it can be dangerous for pregnant women, as this viral infection can cross the placenta to the fetus. If you are traveling while pregnant it’s especially important that you see your doctor first.

The CDC is Your Friend 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will be your new travel companion. They offer up-to-date travel health notices to inform travelers about current disease outbreaks, natural disasters and other issues that could impact travel or your health. The CDC also offers various warning levels, which change regularly. Keep this information handy while you are traveling, particularly if you are traveling to one of the places listed.

Traveling Abroad? We Make Travel Safer! 

Neighborhood Primary Care is your one-stop shop for immunizations, medications, physical exams and diagnostic testing. Whether you’re looking to get a full physical exam after being abroad on a mission trip or you need to get anti-malarial medication before tackling that trek up Mount Kilimanjaro at our Lake Orion, MI, medical team ensures that you have everything you need to stay healthy so you can fully enjoy your trip.

Call our office today at (248) 690-9181 to schedule an appointment before your next trip abroad.