Vaccinations

2026 Health Alerts & Critical Updates

Diphtheria is a serious infection caused by the toxin-producing bacteria, Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It spreads through contact with an infected person’s bodily fluids – such as droplets produced from coughing or sneezing – or skin sores. Respiratory diphtheria affects the throat and airways, and can be life-threatening if the toxin produced by the bacteria damages the airways, nerves or heart. Adults should get a DTP booster every ten years (it’s free), from your early 20s and children should be upto date with their childhood vaccinations.
Measles Global Surge: Due to rising cases worldwide, it is strongly recommended that all travellers ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine (MMR). Free MMR vaccines for those born during or after 1966 who lack records of two doses.
Polio (Level 2 Precautions): The CDC has issued Level 2 alerts for several international destinations as of early 2026. Adults who previously completed their routine series should consider a booster dose if travelling to risk areas.
Monkeypox (Clade I): While not a routine travel vaccine, it is recommended for travellers of any gender or sexual orientation planning to engage in higher risk activities in regions where Clade I mpox is circulating.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Updated 2026 guidelines recommend RSV vaccination for older travellers or those with underlying medical risks. This is now free for those over 75yo

Travel Vaccinations

When planning international travel, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider at
least 4-6 weeks before departure to allow time for vaccines to take effect.

There are 3 categories of travel vaccines:

Routinely recommended vaccines (not specific to travelling overseas)
Selected vaccines based on travel itinerary, activities and likely risk of disease
exposure
Vaccines required by the International Health Regulations 2005 (IHR) or for
entry into specific countries

Common Travel Vaccinations

Vaccine recommendations vary significantly by destination, but common considerations include:

Hepatitis A & Typhoid: Frequently recommended for travel to developing countries where food and water safety may be lower with poor sanitation and hygiene standards.
Yellow Fever: A legal requirement for entry into some countries in tropical South America and sub-Saharan Africa. This is done at a Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre at least 10 days prior to depature.
Japanese Encephalitis & Rabies: Recommended for travellers spending a significant time outdoors or in rural areas of endemic regions like Asia or Africa and the Western Pacific region, including eastern Indonesia and Papua New Guinea
Influenza & COVID 19: Recommended for all travellers, especially those heading to the Northern Hemisphere during its peak season (typically October to May).
Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis: Boosters are recommended every 10 years, or every 5 years for high-risk “tetanus-prone” travel. Tetanus is caused by a bacterial infection found in soil and may develop after almost any type of skin injury – major or minor.
Measles (MMR): Australians born during or since 1966 who have not received the recommended 2 doses of MMR (measles-mumps-rubella)–containing vaccines are recommended to receive MMR vaccine before travelling. This also applies to infants 6–12 months old travelling to areas with measles outbreaks or where measles is endemic.

How to Prepare:

Check Destination Requirements: Use official resources like Smartraveller (Australia) to see specific risks for your itinerary.
Review Your History: Gather your previous immunisation records to avoid unnecessary repeat doses. Access your Immunisation History Statement via myGov or the Medicare app to check existing coverage.
Book a Consultation: Visit your Oriel Road Medical Centre to discuss travel vaccinations.

Extra resources:
https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccination-for-special-risk-groups/vaccination-for-international-travellers