Columbia Travel Medicine at CAPNA
Frequently Asked Questions
WHEN SHOULD I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?
It is best to schedule an appointment a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks before your departure. Most immunizations take time to become effective and some vaccines must be given in a series. Maximum protection from some immunizations may take as long as 6 months.
If it is less than 4 weeks before your departure, it is still important to schedule an appointment. You might still benefit from immunizations, medications, and educational information about protecting yourself and staying healthy while traveling.
WHAT IMMUNZATIONS DO I NEED?
Review of your itinerary, health status, and Centers for Disease Control recommendations
form the basis for immunization recommendations. The Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention categorize vaccines for travel as routine, recommended, and required.
- Routine vaccinations provide protection from diseases that are still common
in many parts of the world even though they rarely occur in the United States.
- Recommended vaccinations protect you from illnesses present in other parts of the world and prevent spread of infectious diseases across international borders. The recommended vaccinations you may need depend on your age, health status, previous immunizations, destination, and the season of the year.
- The yellow fever vaccine is the only vaccine required by International Health Regulations for travel to and from certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America. Columbia Travel Medicine at CAPNA is a U.S. authorized yellow fever immunization site.
- The government of Saudi Arabia requires Meningococcal vaccination for annual travel during the Hadj.
To learn more about the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s list of immunizations and other recommendations for your destination click on this link: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationList.aspx
DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE?
Columbia Travel Medicine at CAPNA does not participate in any insurance plans
or Medicare. Some insurance companies may cover the cost of some vaccines. You
should speak with your insurance company to obtain this information. Columbia
Travel Medicine at CAPNA will provide you with an itemized bill if you wish to
process a claim. If your insurance company determines you are entitled to benefits,
you will be reimbursed directly.
