Have to get shots before travelling to New Zealand
When planning a trip to New Zealand, it is important to consider all the necessary precautions for a safe and enjoyable trip. One of the most important steps for preparation is to get the recommended vaccinations before travelling as New Zealand has its own set of recommended vaccinations for international visitors. As each person’s vaccine history will be different, it is essential to consult with a doctor as soon as possible to get the necessary advice and preventive care.
Generally, the most common vaccines for adults travelling to New Zealand include Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Influenza, and Mumps, Measles, Rubella, Pneumonia, Polio, and Human Papillomavirus. In some rural areas of New Zealand, Japanese encephalitis and rabies may also be recommended. Children aged 11 and younger may need additional vaccines such as Rotavirus and Pediculosis.
New Zealand is a country known for its pristine landscapes, active volcanoes, and breathtaking glaciers. While there are a wealth of natural beauties to explore, there are also health risks to consider in order to keep you safe. It is important to be aware of the diseases that could be present in New Zealand, such as Hantavirus, Lyssavirus, and Leptospirosis. These diseases can be prevented by getting the necessary immunizations before travelling.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) also recommends that travellers to New Zealand get up-to-date on all routine childhood and adult vaccines. These vaccines include the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and the yearly flu vaccine. It is also recommended to get the Hepatitis A and B vaccines before travelling.
Because of frequent changes in immunization requirements, it is important to check with the government of New Zealand’s website to get the latest information about the diseases that are common in the country. This will help you determine which vaccines are necessary for your travels. Additionally, it is also important to stay informed about potential outbreaks in the area as the CDC and other governmental bodies may require certain immunizations for entry into the country if the risk of disease is high.
Visitors to New Zealand should also be aware of cultural differences and abide by local customs. It is essential to remember that New Zealand is an inherently diverse country and visitors should be respectful of the native culture, customs, and religious beliefs.
Finally, travellers should also be aware of the importance of protection from the sun. New Zealand has a reputation for having some of the strongest UV radiation in the world and visitors should be prepared for the possible symptoms of sunburn such as skin damage, sunstroke, and heat exhaustion. It is recommended to wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing while outside, use high-SPF sunscreen, and stay in the shade during the middle of the day.
International Travel & Vaccine Certificates
Certain international travel destinations may require proof of immunization for entry. These destinations may require a “Yellow Card” or International Certificate of Vaccination/Prophylaxis (ICVP) to prevent the entry of potentially dangerous infectious diseases. The “Yellow Card” is the international document which identifies a person’s vaccinations and immunisations.
A person can obtain their “Yellow Card” from their doctor or travel clinic. This document identifies which vaccinations have been taken and when, thus allowing the person to travel safely. Most countries require the ICVP to be signed and stamped by an authorized health professional, so it’s best to get the card before leaving for the destination. The ICVP is necessary for countries that require proof of certain vaccinations for entry such as measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, or polio.
Before travelling to destinations that require an ICVP, it is important to ensure that all of the necessary vaccinations have been taken and that they are still current. If any vaccines have not been taken, or if any vaccinations are not up-to-date, then these will need to be taken in order for the person to enter the country and remain in compliance with the national laws.
It is important to note that the ICVP can take up to 8 weeks for processing, so it is best to ensure that a person has the card in-hand before planning their trip. Furthermore, the ICVP may expire up to 12 months after the date it was issued, so a new card must be obtained for each trip. The ICVP is accepted and recognised by most countries, but it is always best to check before travelling to ensure compliance.
The Cost of Vaccinations
The cost of immunisations and vaccinations for travel can vary greatly depending on the destination and the person’s particular health needs. On average, most additional vaccinations for travel will cost between $75 to $200 per dose. It is important to note that some insurance coverage includes preventative care, and some plans may cover the cost of additional immunisations for travel. Additionally, some pharmacies also offer travel immunisation services, so it is best to check with your local pharmacy for more information.
It is also important to note that the cost of vaccinations can vary depending on the destination. Vaccinating for a tropical country may cost more than a non-tropical destination, as more vaccines may be required. Additionally, the cost for the yellow card is usually around $25, although it can be more in certain countries.
It is always a good idea to shop around as some medical practices or clinics may offer special deals on vaccinations when purchased in bulk or when purchased by the same provider. Additionally, some countries may offer subsidies on certain vaccinations, so it is best to check the local government website for more information.
Benefits of Vaccine Protection
Vaccine protection is essential for preventing the spread of dangerous infectious diseases. Vaccines work by introducing small amounts of a weakened or killed pathogens into the person’s body to help the person develop immunity against specific diseases. This means that if a person is exposed to the same pathogen, their immune system will recognize it and be able to quickly fight off the infection.
Vaccine protection also benefits both individuals and the community as a whole. It helps to protect individuals from serious illnesses, which can lead to long-term health issues or even death. Vaccine protection also helps protect the community from the spread of infectious diseases, as it reduces the chances of large-scale outbreaks.
Finally, vaccine protection has a direct economic benefit as it helps to reduce the number of sick days individuals take, the number of healthcare costs, and the cost of medical treatments. Vaccines can also help save government and business money as they reduce the expenses associated with providing medical treatment for serious illnesses.
Conclusion
When travelling to New Zealand, it is important to take the proper precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Vaccines are essential to protect both the individual and the community from potentially dangerous infectious diseases. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural differences and abide by local customs. Furthermore, visitors should also take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from the sun’s strong UV rays. Ultimately, vaccinating, understanding the culture, and staying safe in the sun are all essential steps for a successful and enjoyable trip to New Zealand.
