September 2025

Trip Tip | September 2025

Feverish Topic: Travel Vaccinations, Immunizations, and Medications

Did you know China is waging a war right now? It’s true - an all-out government attack is underway aimed at the current outbreak of the chikungunya virus. This has led some entities to recommend travel vaccines for travelers headed to certain areas in Asia.

How do you know if you need the vaccination, or others? First of all, beware of the news headlines. Spinning news of a virus in China is attention-grabbing, but does not always convey the truth. Check your sources! One site advises robust vaccine measures, encouraging the chikungunya vaccine for world travelers. However, the CDC warns the vaccine should be avoided by anyone over 65 due to serious adverse effects. Currently the CDC’s advice calls for prevention in the form of mosquito repellent, rather than extra inoculations. According to the CDC, the best methods include checking with your physician to discuss your travel plans, and familiarizing yourself with the CDC guidelines. Rely on these reputable sources for your information, rather than reacting to any hyped news stories.

The chikungunya virus in Asia is just one example of a potential travel vaccination you should consider. 

Others include:

• Requirements, such as a Yellow Card - this is an International Certificate of Immunization, as some destinations require certain vaccinations

• Recommendations, such as Malaria

• Or common sense, such as a Measles booster

Did You Know?

Just because you received a Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine as a child, you do not necessarily have immunity now. This is true for every adult unless you have:

• laboratory evidence of immunity (through a blood test)

• laboratory confirmation of having had the measles virus

• or you were born before 1957

Basically, just about anyone traveling on a Big Round World trip likely needs an MMR booster!

Check with your physician.

Some frequently recommended vaccinations include:

• Hepatitis A and B

• Rabies 

• Japanese encephalitis 

• Typhoid

• Cholera 

• Tetanus (be sure to confirm yours is current!)

Some vaccines are dosed in multiple parts, so check with your doctor early in your planning process to allow enough time for all doses prior to travel. Bring a copy of your current vaccinations with you while abroad.

Did You Know?

The CDC offers a “Travel Checklist” for most countries in the world, based upon what may or may not be available once you are there, and what you should bring with you. This is a very useful tool!

Pills & Potions

What about traveling with medications, or learning about health care availability in your travel location? In particular, medical marijuana, ADHD medications, and sleeping pills are highly regulated or prohibited when entering some foreign countries. Be sure to check with the country’s foreign embassy and customs department to determine allowances for prescription medications. You will also want to keep all original packaging and labeling, be sure to bring enough medication for your entire trip, keep everything in your carry-on bag, and have a letter from your doctor confirming the need for your prescription(s) just in case you are questioned.

According to the U.S. Department of State’s Travel website, 

“Review the Health information for your destination before you travel. This way, you will know about available medical services, health risks, and any rules for traveling with certain prescription medications.”

Where to access travel vaccinations?

You can access travel vaccinations at travel medicine clinics, pharmacies, or your doctor's office. The CDC's Travelers Health page provides links to various services to help you research local options, including for specialized services like the yellow fever vaccine. Ask your doctor's office for their advice.

 As an aside, Big Round World recently discovered Costco has an arrangement with SafeGard Travel Medicine making travel immunizations available at a much more affordable cost. SafeGard Travel Medicine also has an arrangement with Albertson/ Safeway.

Final Thoughts

The CDC recommends monitoring your health for a full three weeks upon returning from international travel, as this is the incubation period for most communicable diseases. Check in with your doctor if you have any symptoms of illness.

Be Informed, Be Prepared: Don’t Let Illness Ruin Your Holiday!