There’s nothing more exciting than planning a big trip abroad—whether it’s a tropical getaway, a cultural adventure, or a work trip to a new city. But before you pack your bags and head to the airport, there’s one crucial step you shouldn’t skip: travel vaccines.
At Parkway Pharmacy, we make it easy to prepare for your trip by providing the vaccines and expert advice you need to stay healthy while traveling. Let’s dive into why travel vaccines are essential and how Parkway Pharmacy ensures your journey is a safe one.
Why Travel Vaccines Matter
Traveling to different parts of the world means encountering new environments, foods, and yes—different diseases. While some illnesses are rare or non-existent in the United States, they’re still prevalent in other countries. Travel vaccines protect you from these potential health risks, ensuring your trip goes off without a hitch.
Here’s why they’re so important:
-
Protect Yourself
Diseases like typhoid, yellow fever, and hepatitis A can cause serious health problems. Vaccines provide a shield of protection so you can focus on enjoying your trip. -
Meet Entry Requirements
Some countries require proof of vaccination for diseases like yellow fever or COVID-19 before they let you in. Having your vaccines in order can save you from being turned away at customs. -
Avoid Bringing Illness Home
Vaccines don’t just protect you—they prevent you from bringing diseases back to your family and community.
Not sure which vaccines you need for your destination? Parkway Pharmacy’s team is here to help.
Common Travel Vaccines You Might Need
The vaccines you’ll need depend on where you’re headed, how long you’ll be there, and what activities you have planned. Here are some of the most common travel vaccines we offer at Parkway Pharmacy:
- Hepatitis A and B: Protect against these liver infections caused by contaminated food, water, or bodily fluids.
- Typhoid: Recommended for areas with poor sanitation.
- Yellow Fever: Required for travel to certain parts of Africa and South America.
- Japanese Encephalitis: Necessary for travelers spending extended time in rural Asia.
- Rabies: Important if you’ll be in areas with a high risk of animal bites.
Our pharmacists stay up-to-date on the latest vaccination recommendations and travel advisories. Check out more on our Vaccinations page for details.
Timing Is Everything: When to Get Your Vaccines
Getting vaccinated isn’t something you want to leave until the last minute. Some vaccines take time to become effective, while others may require multiple doses spread out over weeks or months.
Here’s a general timeline to follow:
-
6–8 Weeks Before Travel
Schedule a consultation with Parkway Pharmacy to determine which vaccines you’ll need. This allows plenty of time for any multi-dose vaccines. -
2–4 Weeks Before Travel
Get single-dose vaccines and ensure your immunizations are up-to-date. -
Last-Minute Travelers
Even if your trip is just days away, it’s not too late. Some vaccines, like the flu shot or hepatitis A, can still provide protection.
Need help figuring out the timing? Our team can guide you through the process and make sure you’re ready to go.
The Parkway Pharmacy Difference
At Parkway Pharmacy, we understand that preparing for travel can be stressful. That’s why we make getting your travel vaccines as easy as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
-
Expert Advice
Not sure what you need? Our knowledgeable pharmacists will review your travel itinerary and recommend the necessary vaccines. -
No Appointment Needed
Life’s busy, and planning a trip is no exception. We offer walk-in vaccinations, so you can get protected on your schedule. -
Friendly Service
Our team is here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Have questions? We’re happy to answer them all. -
Affordable Care
We work with most insurance plans and offer competitive pricing for uninsured travelers.
Learn more about why Parkway Pharmacy is Philadelphia’s trusted choice on our homepage.
Other Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling
Vaccines are a big part of staying healthy abroad, but they’re not the only thing to consider. Here are some extra tips to keep in mind:
- Drink Safely: Stick to bottled water in areas where tap water isn’t safe, and avoid ice made from local water.
- Pack a First Aid Kit: Bring essentials like pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, and bandages.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
- Protect Against Insects: Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue fever.
At Parkway Pharmacy, we can recommend over-the-counter products to include in your travel kit.
Ready to Plan a Safe and Healthy Trip?
Your next adventure is just around the corner, and Parkway Pharmacy is here to help you prepare. From essential travel vaccines to helpful health advice, we’ve got you covered.
Visit our Vaccinations page to learn more, or stop by today to get started. Whether you’re exploring new cultures or lounging on a tropical beach, we’ll make sure your health is the last thing you need to worry about.