The following weekly column is written and sponsored by Virginia Hospital Center, a proud member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network and one of America’s 100 Top Hospitals for the third year in a row.
Passport? Check. Plane ticket? Check. Hotel reservation? Check. Ready to go? Not quite. There’s one more item for your travel checklist: Visit the Virginia Hospital Center Physician Group Travel Clinic for your vaccinations.
Before you plan your next vacation, consider this: some types of international travel carry health risks. Many serious illnesses, including typhoid and yellow fever, are widespread in developing countries. Diseases that are rare in the United States, such as polio, can still be found in other parts of the world. Measles occurs in many countries, including common travel destinations in Europe and Asia. Even domestic travel may put you at risk for certain infections depending on your planned activities.
Immunization is one of the best ways to protect yourself. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends you schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider before your trip to ensure you are ready to travel. Discuss your itinerary and determine if any special immunizations are required. In addition, make sure you are current on all your routine vaccines, such as polio, tetanus and MMR (measles).
Immunizations are most effective when given four to six weeks before traveling. A good rule of thumb: book your shots when you book your flight. If your departure date is sooner, have the shots anyway. The protection will still be beneficial.
Typical travel vaccines include:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Influenza
- MMR (measles)
- Pneumonia
- Polio
- Rabies
- Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis
- Typhoid
- Yellow Fever
When you get your vaccines, ask about medications, preventive care and other recommendations to keep your travels healthy. Depending on your destination, for example, you may want to bring along remedies for diarrhea, allergies or altitude sickness. In some areas, it’s wise to only eat food that is cooked or drink bottled water that is sealed. Your needs will be different if you are camping versus staying in a resort. To read more, click here.
The Virginia Hospital Center Physician Group Travel Clinic has the vaccines and expertise you need for a safe and healthful vacation. We follow CDC guidelines and can accommodate next-day appointments if necessary. Located on the Virginia Hospital Center campus at 1715 George Mason Drive, Suite 305, the clinic is open Monday through Friday, 1-4 p.m. Make your appointment today: 703.717.7851.
Bon voyage!
The views and opinions expressed in the column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ARLnow.com.
Recent Stories
A South Arlington intersection that has seen two pedestrian-involved crashes this year, including one last week, is set to be updated to improve safety. In the evening on Tuesday, March…
Firefighters are battling a vehicle blaze atop the Pentagon City mall parking garage.
Building a new home should be a rewarding and memorable experience. That’s why a custom-built home requires personalized service! Here’s your chance to learn everything you need to know about…
Provided things go according to eggspectations, Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken’s new Pentagon City location could hatch early next month. The eatery is opening at 1301 S. Joyce Street in the…
EDBS Dental Billing Solutions is pleased to announce that it has achieved compliance with the federally mandated standards of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) through the use of Compliancy Group’s proprietary HIPAA methodology, The Guard® compliance tracking software, and HIPAA Seal of Compliance®.
The HIPAA Seal of Compliance is issued to organizations that have implemented an effective HIPAA compliance program through the use of The Guard, Compliancy Group’s proprietary compliance tracking solution.
Clients and patients are becoming more aware of the requirements of HIPAA compliance and how the regulation protects their personal information. Forward-thinking providers like EDBS Dental Billing Solutions choose the HIPAA Seal of Compliance to differentiate their services.
“Since the nature of our business being exclusively remote, we take HIPAA compliance very seriously. With the help of Compliancy Group, we are able to take steps to fortify our systems to protect PHI information and familiarize each employee about HIPAA and how we can further safeguard PHI data.” said EDBS Dental Billing Solutions founder Goldie De Leon.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope with life’s challenges? You’re not alone. Mental health issues are more common than you might think, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Our counseling service provides a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your feelings, identify negative thought patterns, and learn coping skills to manage your symptoms. Lauren is trained in evidence-based practices and specializes in a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and addiction.
We understand that seeking counseling can be intimidating, but we believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling, happy life. Our approach is non-judgmental and compassionate, and we work collaboratively with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.
We offer a free 15-minute consultation to see if our service is a good fit for you. Reach out at https://peacefulmindsolutions.com or call (703) 994-0300 to set up a consultation.
WHS Spring Festival
Join us at the WHS Spring Festival on April 22, 2023, from 10am- 3pm at Wakefield High School(main parking lot). Come out to shop, play, and eat!
Shop local vendors, arts & crafts, new and used items, food vendors/trucks, and
District 27 Toastmasters 2023 Virtual Conference
District 27 Toastmasters invites you to its annual conference where you can hear phenomenal speakers, attend professional development and personal growth seminars about leadership, negotiation, communication, teamwork, and mentorship. Learn how to develop your personal story and how to improve
