Travel Vaccination Clinic in Clemson, SC

If you are planning on traveling to another country and require vaccinations to protect you, come to AFC Urgent Care to get the vaccinations you need. Call today to get yours or schedule an appointment online.

Everybody loves to travel, whether it’s to the beach or an exotic destination half-way around the world. In fact, some places are so exotic that vaccinations are required before traveling there. Different regions require different vaccinations, so be sure to check with either your travel agent or your healthcare provider before planning a trip!

How long before travel do I need Vaccinations?

As the body may not have enough time to produce antibodies, don’t be tempted to leave travel vaccinations to the last minute, or you will be at higher risk of not being adequately immunized or protected. Receiving your vaccinations too late also means if you were to develop side-effects, this could potentially happen when you first get to your destination or shortly thereafter.

While 4 to 6 weeks is often enough, many healthcare professionals recommend to start your vaccinations around eight weeks prior to travel, as it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for your body to produce antibodies. Some people require immunization well in advance, and some may require more than one injection in the course, so you need to allow time for this.

Those travelling outside the US should get advice from their GP or travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before they are due to travel, while those with more complex medical needs should seek advice earlier. As earlier immunization will never do any harm, it’s probably worth going for an 8 week rather than a 4 to 6 week window, whereas leaving it too late can lead to complications.

However, it may still be worth getting advice even if time is short. Some last-minute vaccinations are recommended as they may be effective for diseases with long incubation periods, and others may be worthwhile even if they don’t provide immediate protection for the first part of your trip abroad, as some protection is better than no protection. Other preventative measures can also be discussed.

Where can I get vaccinations before travel?

Travel vaccinations are available at a multitude of healthcare facilities, including AFC Urgent Care! We have everything you need before traveling, making us a one-stop destination for all of your pre-travel needs!

What vaccines do I need regularly when travelling?

Outlined below are a few different vaccines for varying travel areas, from South America to Asia. Although there are many other vaccinations required, the ones listed have a shorter duration of efficacy, so they will need to be updated more frequently.

Cholera
Type: Single injection
Protection: 1-2 years

Typhoid Fever
Type: Single injection or Pills
Protection: 2 years (injection), 5 years (pills)

Flu Vaccine
Type: Single injection
Protection: 1 year

Rabies
Type: 3 injections over 2 months
Protection: 5-8 years (this does not prevent rabies, but helps with treatment)

Meningitis
Type: Single injection
Protection: 3-5 years

Japanese Encephalitis
Type: 2 injections over one month
Protection: 1-2 years

Malaria
Type: Multiple types of medication: Atovone/Proguanil, Mefloqine, Chloroquine, or Doxycycline.
Protection: For as long as you’re on the medication

If you or someone you know is traveling to a foreign country for the first time, travel vaccinations may be in order. At AFC Urgent Care, we have all of the required vaccinations so you can enjoy yourself when you’re abroad! To talk with an expert, contact our office today. Visit us online or give us a call to schedule an appointment at our clinic.