The SHC physicians and nurse practitioners have extensive experience in providing pre-travel consultations for our international travelers. Students should be aware that most insurance companies do NOT cover the cost of immunizations or medications needed for travel.
Travel consultation appointments should be made 6 weeks in advance of the departure date, in order to allow any needed vaccines to take effect. Some vaccines may require a series of shots, so it is important to leave enough time for proper immunization.
Preparing for a travel consultation in advance will allow your visit to be more efficient and productive. The CDC’s travel website at www.cdc.gov/travel is a helpful resource that will give you an idea of what to expect at your appointment. Please also CLICK HERE for more information regarding travel-related vaccinations and malaria medications.
It is very important that you have the following information with you at the time of the appointment:
- Up to date immunization records, including childhood immunizations. If you are uncertain as to whether SHC already has these records, it is important that you call ahead to ascertain this information. In some cases, students may need to get that information from their home physicians or their family before coming to the appointment.
- Detailed travel plans including
- Dates of departure
- Exact locations of travel—in some cases, knowing the exact provinces and city/town names is important in knowing risks for certain diseases
- Types of accommodations—rural vs. urban, resort vs. “local”
- Activities planned—healthcare, animal care, swimming, rafting, hiking to high altitude, camping, etc…
SHC carries all routine vaccinations as well as all travel-related vaccines, with the exception of the Yellow Fever vaccine. The Yellow Fever vaccine can be given only in certain sites designated by the State Department of Health. In Nashville, the most convenient location for the students is located in the Medical Center. Other sites can be found at the CDC’s locator at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/YellowFever/vaccine/ At the time of the travel consultation at SHC, students requiring the Yellow Fever Vaccine will be given assistance in making arrangements for the shot.
