Vaccines: What You Need Before You Travel
Vaccination remains a primary defense against many infectious diseases, particularly for individuals crossing international borders. Exposure risks vary widely by region, and certain illnesses that are rare at home may be far more prevalent elsewhere. Staying current on both routine and destination-specific vaccines should be considered a standard part of pre-travel preparation.
Recommendations take into account your travel route, current health status, and which immunizations are already covered under Ontario's public health system.
Ontario's Routine Immunizations
The Government of Ontario provides a set of routine vaccinations at no cost. These are administered according to age and risk category and offer protection against a range of preventable diseases, many of which are relevant for international travel as well.
Some key routine vaccines are:
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap)
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Offered in childhood and as a booster in adolescence/adulthood.
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Boosters recommended every 10 years, especially important for travel.
Polio (IPV)
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Part of the childhood series.
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Adult boosters may be required for certain travel destinations.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
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Usually given in childhood (2 doses).
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Required proof for travel to many countries; immunity should be confirmed.
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
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Routine for infants and young children.
Hepatitis B
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Provided for infants and grade 7 students in Ontario.
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Especially important for travelers at risk due to prolonged stays, medical procedures, or sexual exposure abroad.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
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Offered to grade 7 students.
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Protects against certain cancers and genital warts.
Meningococcal disease (Men-C and Men-ACYW)
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Given in infancy and again around age 12.
Influenza (Flu)
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Annual vaccine available free of charge during flu season.
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Recommended for all travelers, especially seniors, young children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Pneumococcal (Pneu-C-13 and Pneu-P-23)
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Routine for infants, adults over 65, and high-risk groups.
Rotavirus
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Given to infants under 8 months.
Varicella (Chickenpox)
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Routine for children and those without natural immunity.
Travel-Specific Vaccines
In addition to routine vaccines, certain immunizations are recommended or required depending on your destination, duration of stay, and type of travel. These vaccines are usually not covered by Ontario’s public health system but may be reimbursed through private insurance:
Hepatitis A
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Recommended for travelers to areas with poor sanitation.
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Transmitted through contaminated food or water.
Typhoid
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Important for travel to South Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
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Spread via contaminated food or water.
Rabies
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Advised for long-term travelers, those working with animals, or visiting remote areas.
Yellow Fever
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Required for entry into certain African and South American countries.
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Proof of vaccination may be needed at border crossings.
Japanese Encephalitis
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Recommended for travelers spending extended periods in rural Asia.
Cholera
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For high-risk areas or humanitarian workers.
Traveler’s Diarrhea (Dukoral)
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An oral vaccine to help protect against certain strains of E. coli.
It is recommended to schedule a travel health consultation at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure. This allows sufficient time to review your vaccination history, evaluate region-specific health risks, and administer any required immunizations. Travel-related diseases can often be prevented through timely vaccination, making early preparation a critical component of health and safety abroad.
