Travelling overseas with children can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also requires careful planning—especially when it comes to vaccinations. Different countries pose different health risks, and ensuring your child is up to date with immunisations is essential for their safety. This guide will help you understand which vaccines may be required, how to prepare for travel, and why immunisation is crucial for international trips.

Why Are Travel Vaccinations Important for Children?

Children are more vulnerable to infections, and many diseases that are rare in Australia remain common in other parts of the world. Travel vaccinations for children protect against serious illnesses such as hepatitis, typhoid, and yellow fever, reducing the risk of infection during your trip. Vaccines also help prevent the spread of diseases when returning home, safeguarding both your child and the wider community.

Routine Childhood Vaccinations

Before considering travel-specific vaccinations, ensure your child is up to date with their routine immunisations under the National Immunisation Program (NIP). The standard childhood schedule protects against diseases such as:

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Polio
Hepatitis B
Pneumococcal disease
Rotavirus

These vaccines provide a strong foundation of protection, but additional travel vaccinations may be necessary depending on your destination.

H2: Essential Travel Vaccinations for Children

When travelling overseas, children may require additional vaccinations based on their destination, length of stay, and activities planned. Some regions pose a higher risk of infectious diseases that are not common in Australia, making immunisation a crucial part of travel preparation. Below are some of the most recommended travel vaccines for children:

1. Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that affects the liver and spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact with an infected person. It is particularly common in countries with lower sanitation and hygiene standards.

Recommended for travel to developing countries.
Spread through contaminated food and water.
Requires two doses for long-term protection.

2. Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that can cause high fever, weakness, stomach pain, and digestive issues. It is commonly found in regions with poor water and food hygiene, especially in parts of Asia, Africa, and South America.

Essential for travel to areas with a high risk of contaminated food and water.
Available as an oral capsule or injectable vaccine.
Provides protection for several years.

3. Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease found in parts of Africa and South America. Some countries require proof of vaccination for entry.

Required for travel to specific regions in Africa and South America.
A single dose provides lifelong immunity.
Some countries require an International Certificate of Vaccination for entry.

4. Rabies

Rabies is a deadly viral disease spread through bites or scratches from infected animals, such as stray dogs, monkeys, and bats.

Recommended for travel to rural or remote areas with a high risk of animal bites.
Especially important for longer stays or adventure travel.
Given as a series of three injections over several weeks.

5. Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause severe brain inflammation and long-term neurological complications.

Common in rural parts of Asia and the Pacific, especially during monsoon seasons.
Recommended for children staying in affected regions for a month or longer.
Spread by mosquitoes, particularly in rice fields and pig farms.

6. Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to life-threatening conditions like meningitis and blood poisoning.

Some countries require this vaccine for entry, including Saudi Arabia for Hajj pilgrims.
Protects against bacterial meningitis, which can be fatal if untreated.
Recommended for travel to sub-Saharan Africa and regions with high disease outbreaks.

When to Get Travel Vaccinations

Vaccinations should be planned well in advance of travel, as some require multiple doses over several weeks. Ideally, visit your GP or travel medicine specialist at least 6–8 weeks before departure to ensure:

Your child’s routine vaccines are up to date.
Travel-specific vaccines can be administered in time to be effective.
Any necessary booster doses are completed before travel.

Other Preventative Measures for Travel Health

While vaccinations play a crucial role in protecting your child’s health, other precautions should also be taken:

Malaria Prevention: If travelling to malaria-prone regions, discuss antimalarial medication with your doctor.
Food and Water Safety: Encourage children to drink bottled or filtered water and avoid undercooked food.
Mosquito Protection: Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under mosquito nets in high-risk areas.
Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitisers can reduce infection risks.

Keeping Vaccination Records Up to Date

Many countries require proof of immunisation for entry. Ensure you carry an International Certificate of Vaccination (available for yellow fever) and keep a record of all travel vaccines administered. Your GP can help update your child’s records in the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).

H2: Protect Your Child’s Health Before You Travel – Book Their Vaccinations Today

Travel vaccinations are a crucial part of preparing for international trips with children. By ensuring your child is fully immunised and taking additional health precautions, you can travel with confidence, knowing they are protected against serious diseases. Planning ahead and consulting a healthcare provider will help you navigate destination-specific requirements and keep your child safe.

At North Brighton Medical Centre, we provide comprehensive travel vaccinations for children and families. Our experienced GPs offer expert guidance on immunisation requirements based on your travel plans, ensuring your child receives the necessary protection. We proudly serve families across Brighton, North Brighton, Elwood, Elsternwick, Gardenvale, Ripponlea, Ormond, McKinnon, Bentleigh, and surrounding suburbs.

Book a consultation with us today and travel with confidence knowing your child’s health is in safe hands.