Immunization Consultation for Travel

Immunization Consultation

Information for Before, During and After Your Visit

Although it is ideal to schedule your appointment at least one month in advance of your trip, we endeavor to accommodate last-minute travelers as well.

Before Your Appointment
  1. Contact your insurance company to verify coverage for "pre-travel immunizations." If your insurance does not cover immunizations, you will be asked to pay for services at the time of your visit.
  2. Obtain a referral from your primary care provider, if necessary. Fax it to 617-278-8101 or bring it in with you.
  3. Know your travel itinerary with departure dates and all destinations.
  4. Obtain documentation of all previous immunizations and bring it with you.
  5. Bring your World Health Organization International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow book), if you have one from previous trips.
  6. Bring your insurance card and co-payment. We accept cash, check, debit and credit cards.

During Your Consult

A consult often lasts 35 to 45 minutes.

Medical History & Vaccines

Your visit to the Travel Clinic will begin with a careful evaluation of your medical history, including allergies and medication. Using the itinerary you provide, you will also be counseled on topics that may include:

  • Traveler's diarrhea
  • Fruit, food, beverage (water) and animal safety
  • Treatment of commonly encountered bacterial diseases
  • Prevention of mosquito and other insect-borne maladies, such as malaria
  • Altitude sickness precautions for mountain climbers and deep-sea divers
Regional Health Concerns and Geo-Political Information

You will be provided with the most recently updated regional health concerns and geo-political information concerning your planned destination. You will also receives an "International Medical Assistance to Travelers" booklet containing information about medical services available abroad.

After Your Consult

In some cases, a follow-up appointment will be set up at the front desk to receive a booster vaccine.

Travelers with Disabilities

Travelers with disabilities can learn more from the CDC about ensuring safe, accessible travel.

What to Bring

As you embark on your travel, ensure that you have:

  • Enough of any prescription or non-prescription medicine
  • Extra pair of eyeglasses
  • Certain over-the-counter first aid items, which may be difficult to find in developing countries:
    • Bandages in assorted sizes (for minor cuts or blisters)
    • Pain medication (such as aspirin and ibuprofen)
    • Anti-bacterial hand gel or wipes
    • Insect repellent and sunscreen
    • Antihistamines
    • Anti-diarrhea medication
If You Become Ill Abroad

Should you become ill abroad, utilize the information in your travel booklet to find a physician or hospital. Although Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has no direct knowledge or control over any of these providers, here are lists of physician, hospitals and embassies for many parts of the world:

When to Visit Your PCP

On your return, it is prudent to visit your primary care physician or call the BIDMC Infectious Disease Department at 617-632-7706, if you:

  • Were seriously ill abroad
  • Have been abroad for extended time periods
  • Develop a fever or other travel-related symptoms within 6 months of your return

It is important to continue taking your anti-malaria and antibiotic pills for the full course of treatment as prescribed.