Health Issues When Volunteering Overseas
Pre Trip Immunizations Can Help You Avoid Immigration Delays
Apr 15, 2009
Where to Find Advice on Travel Health Issues
If you found your volunteer work through a placement agency, you should receive information on the important local health concerns for the country that you will visit.
If you are planning your trip without an agency, check the websites for The World Health Organization (WHO) and the public health organization for your country. The WHO is the public health arm of the United Nations and it monitors global health conditions and issues. In the United States, The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is the umbrella organization. Both organizations offer information on health issues and travel recommendations listed by country.
While you will find many different immunizations and medications recommended for various countries, the two health concerns that affect most international travelers are:
The Importance of Yellow Fever Immunizations
An immunization is required to enter certain countries. The vaccine is administered in a single dose and is valid for ten years. At the time of injection, you either receive a stamp in your immunization record or a certificate with the date of administration.
After visiting a country where yellow fever is found, even if you did not enter an area where the disease was present, subsequent countries can require that you have a current yellow fever certificate to enter their country. If no current certificate is available, you may be given another immunization and could be detained in quarantine (up to two weeks) until your yellow fever status is known.
Malaria Prevention
Prophylactic medication is recommended any time you will be in an area where malaria is present.
Local Resources for Travel Health Issues
Once you have researched your destination and gathered the list of medications and immunizations suggested for your trip, consider the following providers for your pre-trip health needs. Be aware that not every provider will have access to the full compliment of immunizations and prices can vary. A little research will help you find what you need for your trip and at the best price.
- Your private physician or health care facility - These are excellent sources for routine immunizations (Tetanus, Measles and Hepatitis). As these vaccines are not travel specific, they may be included under your annual premium/physical or at a reduced cost.
- City or county-based travel clinics - These locations offer a wealth of practical advice about international travel and usually have some of the most up-to-date information for your specific destination. These clinics tend to have access to the full range of products at fair prices.
- Private travel clinics or lists of physicians - These may offer travel immunizations and advice on travel health issues. Again, call in advance to make sure they have expertise about the countries to be visited and access to the recommended immunizations.
It pays to research a specific trip well in advance of your departure date. Some immunizations are given in a single dose and provide immunity within two weeks. Others, however, only offer protection after a series of injections (Hepatitis B - requires three injections over a period of six-months).
Also be advised that not all vaccines are always readily available. By planning ahead, doing your research and calling around, you can prepare for a volunteer vacation knowing that the pre-trip health issues are handled well before your departure.
