Q: I’m planning a trip abroad next month. What routine vaccines should I consider getting before traveling?

A: Traveling abroad can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to prioritize your health and safety. Depending on the destination, there may be specific vaccines recommended that are not routinely used in America, such as yellow fever vaccine, typhoid fever and Japanese encephalitis virus. However, it is also important to ensure you are still protected against diseases we are routinely vaccinated for domestically that are commonly encountered internationally. Preparing for an international trip is a great time to check your current status. Here’s a rundown of some routine vaccines you should consider before your trip.

Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis: If you haven’t had a Tdap vaccine within the past 10 years, it’s advisable to get one before traveling.