When preparing for a trip, there is so much to think about --especially when you are traveling abroad. Is it any wonder that a little thing like vaccinations would slip your mind? Although travel shots may not be included in the fun part of your vacation, they may save you from a lot of pain, suffering, even death. Not to mention that a vaccination may be necessary to get into a certain country.
It is relatively easy to get informed about the specific shots you will need to visit a foreign country. However, your regular doctor may not be the best course of action. Unless your doctor receives many requests for vaccinations, he or she may not be up to date on the current information. So inform yourself! The Centers for Disease Control and Medicine Planet provide information about various country's disease warnings and the vaccination needs of vacationers.
However, arming yourself with current information isn’t all you need. You need to find a doctor who not only knows what you need, but has the necessary supplies. There are doctors and clinics that specialize in travel medicine. To find a doctor in your area, visit the International Society of Travel Medicine’s website. If you live in a small town, major hospitals in your area may have the vaccines you need.
Another thing to consider is the cost of the vaccines. They’re not cheap! For example, the rabies vaccine can run you up to $250. Moreover, some shots cannot be given on the same day as others, so it may require multiple trips to the doctor. (And that means multiple office visit fees). Often a consultation with a doctor who specializes in travel medicine is required before the actual shots are administered and that can cost anywhere from $35 to $150. And if that wasn’t bad enough news, many HMOs don’t cover travel-related vaccines.
As a precaution once on the road, you may want to consider traveler’s insurance. Before you shell out cash for a new plan, call your insurance company to find out what is covered under your current plan. Many insurance companies cover emergencies abroad, but may require you to pay upfront and file for reimbursement. There are companies like Access America and Travel Guard offer a wide array of packages that you can customize to your travel needs.
Whether it’s for business or pleasure, no one wants to get sick while traveling. Spending a little money and time before you embark on your journey could save you a lot of hassle in the future. 
