Vaccination Travel Medicine

The measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of the routine childhood vaccination in Canada. It is normally given in childhood at age 12 months and at 4-6 years.

Planning a vacation to Africa, Asia, or South America? These popular destinations can be endemic to many different vector-borne diseases such as dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis, and malaria. Prior to your travel, it is important to be aware of the different ways you can do to help protect yourself from catching potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when you travel to high altitudes—typically above 8,000 feet (2,400 meters)—too quickly. The lower oxygen levels at higher elevations make it harder for your body to adjust, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue.

Chikungunya outbreaks on the rise, the IXCHIQ vaccine offers vital protection, especially for travelers heading to endemic regions. Available at TravelVAX clinics, it’s an essential step for staying healthy on your travels. Get vaccinated today and reduce your risk of this debilitating virus.

Traveler's diarrhea is a common condition affecting millions of travelers each year. Caused by contaminated food or water, it leads to symptoms like frequent, loose stools, abdominal cramps, nausea, and sometimes vomiting. It’s especially prevalent in areas with lower sanitation standards, such as parts of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Schools, Employers in healthcare, childcare, and correctional facilities often require TB testing to protect both staff and patients. TravelVAX offers TB skin testing to meet these workplace health requirements.

The shingles (Shingrix) vaccine is not a publicly funded vaccine and is not provided for free in BC. For First Nations Elders aged 60 and older, it is available at no cost as of September 1, 2023.

Shingles, a painful rash from the same virus as chickenpox, can be severe, especially for those over 50. The shingles vaccine helps reduce the severity of the illness, lowers the risk of lingering nerve pain, and prevents the spread of the virus. Even if you’ve had shingles before or received the older vaccine, getting the updated vaccine is crucial for better protection.

HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) is a common infection that can lead to serious health issues like cancers and genital warts. The Gardasil vaccine is a powerful tool in preventing these problems, especially when given before you become sexually active, though it’s still valuable for adults.

n British Columbia, the GARDASIL®9 HPV vaccine is free for students in grades 6-12, HIV-positive individuals aged 9-26, and certain men and non-binary individuals aged 19-26. It’s not covered for women aged 19-45, some men aged 19-26, and men aged 27 and older.

A travel consultation is crucial for a safe trip, helping you manage health risks, get the right vaccinations, and stay healthy with tips on food safety and hygiene. For expert advice and peace of mind, get a TravelVAX pre-travel consultation.