Every year Australian travellers become ill, or even die, while travelling overseas. Make an appointment with your doctor for a basic health check-up at least eight weeks before you depart. Travel vaccinations are able to be prescribed by our doctors and with our close relationship with Pharmacy Advice Prospect Pharmacy within our building, sourcing the vaccinations promptly for same day administration provides not only convenience but maximises vaccine safety ensuring vaccines do not spoil during transport from pharmacy to doctor.
Infectious diseases that cause some of the overseas illnesses are often preventable through vaccinations. It’s important that you discuss your personal travel plans with a health professional to ensure you have the correct vaccinations for your trip and any booster doses of childhood vaccinations you may need.
Vaccines can prevent you from contracting some diseases, but remember:
If you plan to take medicines overseas, we recommend that you:
If you’re travelling with medication, make sure it’s legal in the countries you’re visiting by contacting the relevant embassy or consulate in Australia.
If you need to travel with large quantities of medication, it’s good practice to divide portions among different pieces of your luggage in case bags go missing. Keep all medication in the original, labelled container to avoid customs problems.
If you have to inject your medication, it may be preferable to carry your own needles and syringes if permissible in the countries you’re visiting. If you buy needles and syringes overseas, ensure they are sealed and sterile.
Take enough medication to cover the length of your trip. If you need to purchase medication at your destination, be careful to avoid imitation or counterfeit medications and prescription drugs, and always check the strength of a medication with a doctor. Be aware that packaging and labelling may be similar to those available in Australia, but the strength and active ingredients can vary from country to country.