Did you know that some countries require a vaccination in order to visit them? Have you had trouble getting the proper travel health information you need to prepare a trip to developing or tropical countries? The Travel Medicine & Vaccination Centre in Gateway Village actually has all the travel-related health services and information you need under one roof.
The TMVC provides pre-travel consultations with a doctor and a nurse practitioner. They cover your medical history, your travel plans and any health issues that you have. They will provide you with the proper vaccines and medication prescriptions to get you on your way and back home safely. No need to zoom between your family doctor, the pharmacy and the travel clinic! The clinic also offers travel products such as mosquito nets and insect repellants.
Susan, the manager, says that it’s preferable to visit the travel clinic 6 to 8 weeks before your planned departure so the vaccinations have time to be fully effective. Some countries require vaccination (such as yellow fever), so it’s always a good idea to do your research well ahead of your travel date.
Despite its name, the TMVC is more than a travel clinic. It also covers seasonal flu vaccines and occupational health programs, like Hep A and Hep B vaccinations during outbreaks. The staff travels to schools, offices and work sites to provide vaccinations when needed.
Susan noted that despite the general belief, diseases such as Hep A, Hep B and tetanus do occur here in Victoria and that every adult should be immunized. Luckily, the clinic does provide these vaccines!
One more thing: the clinic also handles flu vaccinations during the fall and winter seasons. Susan suggests getting yours in October or November at the latest to receive full protection during the flu season.