Sao Tome Health and Safety Information - Vaccination
Disease prevention and vaccination
Before you embark on your journey to São Tomé and Príncipe, it's crucial to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up to date. This includes inoculations for chickenpox, DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), flu, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), polio, and shingles.
Hepatitis A vaccination is recommended for travelers over one year of age. Infants between 6 to 11 months should be vaccinated too, although this dose won't count towards the standard two-dose series. Those who are either allergic to the vaccine's components, younger than 6 months, over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic conditions should consider immune globulin for temporary protection.
Similarly, the Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all unvaccinated individuals visiting São Tomé and Príncipe.
Malaria prophylaxis must be taken as per the prescription, starting several days before travel, during your stay, and upon return. A healthcare provider can guide which medication suits best for malaria prevention.
Rabies is present in São Tomé and Príncipe, and rabies vaccination is advised for travelers who may come into contact with animals, particularly dogs, such as campers, wildlife adventurers, veterinarians, and visitors to rural areas.
Typhoid vaccination is recommended, especially for those who are visiting smaller cities or rural areas or staying with friends and relatives.
Yellow Fever, São Tomé and Príncipe typically does not require vaccination unless you're arriving from a country where the virus is prevalent. Travelers above the age of one may need proof of vaccination if coming from or transiting through a country at risk of Yellow Fever.
Always consult healthcare providers for clinical guidance on vaccinations and to tailor your immunization schedule to meet these recommendations.
For more detailed advice please consult the page from Center of Disease Control CDC
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Routine Vaccines: Q&A for Travelers to São Tomé and Príncipe
Understanding routine vaccines is essential for travelers heading to São Tomé and Príncipe. This Q&A will address key questions regarding vaccination and its importance for health and safety while traveling.
Q1: What are routine vaccines?
A: Routine vaccines are those recommended for everyone based on their age and vaccine history. While many think of these as childhood vaccines required for school, there are also essential vaccines and booster doses recommended for adolescents and adults. They help protect individuals from various preventable diseases.
Q2: Why are routine vaccines important for travelers?
A: Routine vaccines are crucial for travelers because they can help prevent diseases that are rare in the U.S. but still prevalent in other countries. Without adequate vaccination, travelers risk exposure to vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, mumps, and chickenpox, which may still have outbreaks in their destination.
Q3: How can I ensure that I am up to date with my routine vaccines before traveling?
A: To ensure you're up to date, check with your healthcare provider or a travel health specialist. It's recommended to schedule an appointment at least 4-6 weeks before your departure. They can provide destination-specific vaccine information and determine if you need any additional vaccinations or booster doses before traveling.
Q4: What specific vaccines should I consider before traveling to São Tomé and Príncipe?
A: Common vaccines that travelers to São Tomé and Príncipe should consider include:
COVID-19
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Typhoid
Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
Yellow fever (if required)
Always review the latest information from the CDC or your healthcare provider for any updates or additional recommendations specific to your health and itinerary.
Q5: How can I access my immunization records when I travel?
A: Before you travel, obtain a copy of your official immunization records from your healthcare provider. Keep these documents in a secure place during your trip, such as a travel wallet, to ensure they are accessible if needed. It's important to have proof of vaccination in case you are asked for it at borders or health facilities.
Q6: What are the potential health risks of not being vaccinated before traveling?
A: Not being vaccinated increases your risk of contracting and spreading vaccine-preventable diseases, which can have serious health consequences. By not having adequate vaccinations, you may inadvertently bring diseases back home to your community or face health challenges while traveling, such as requiring extensive medical treatment abroad.
Q7: Are there different vaccines based on age and health conditions?
A: Yes, routine vaccines often vary depending on a person's age, health, and vaccination history. For example, children might receive a different vaccination schedule compared to adults. Additionally, individuals with certain health conditions may need accelerated doses or specific vaccines. It's best to discuss your unique situation with your healthcare provider.
Q8: Where can I find public health resources for vaccinations before my trip?
A: Public health resources can often be found by visiting local health departments, travel health clinics, or pharmacies. The CDC's website is also a valuable resource for information on vaccines and health risks associated with different destinations.
Q9: What steps can I take to encourage others to get vaccinated before traveling?
A: Sharing information on the importance of routine vaccinations, discussing personal travel health experiences, and highlighting how vaccines protect not just individuals but also the communities they visit can encourage others to prioritize their health before traveling. Misinformation about vaccines should also be addressed respectfully to foster open dialogue.
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Travel Advice & Individual Tours in São Tomé and Príncipe
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