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Immunizations and Vaccinations

Getting recommended vaccinations before departure is one of the most important steps that you can take to prevent a travel-related disease while abroad.

A few words of advice before you depart:

  • Review health guidelines and recommended vaccinations for your host country at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention

  • Make an appointment with a doctor familiar with travel medicine at least 6 weeks before departure. See below for a list of travel clinics in the Washington DC area.

  • Be aware that some immunizations require a series or spacing for protection (as long as three months for a series of shots), so allow as much time as possible for immunization.

  • Be aware that some countries may require you to provide proof of your immunizations as part of the visa process or upon arrival. Ask your physician to provide you with a list of shots you have received to date in an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis bookle

Additional Resources

Traveler’s Clinics in the Washington DC area