Planning and vaccinations for international travel

Certain vaccinations such as yellow fever are obligatory at least for some countries. Only a few centers are authorized by the WHO to offer this vacci nation with living, attenuated viruses. All other vaccinations are optional . A status analysis of the vaccination record should indicate which of the standard vaccinations, such as tetanus, diphtheria, and poliomyelitis, requ ire booster shots. For children the common vaccinations against mumps, meas les, and rubella should be checked. Active vaccination against hepatitis A is especially recommended for all yo unger people who most probably have not yet experienced this disease. Indiv iduals traveling to areas of the meningococcal belt in Africa should be vac cinated against meningococci A+C. This vaccine is well tolerated and highly protective. All other vaccinations, including those against cholera and ty phoid fever, are of limited value only. Another important concern is malari a prophylaxis when areas with high risk are visited. Both exposition prophy laxis and chemoprophylaxis should be deliberated with the tourist. Standby therapy against malaria is feasible only in certain circumstances. Particul ar aspects of preventive measures for pregnant women are discussed.