Before you travel, you should check that all your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, such as measles, hepatitis B, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough) and polio vaccinations.
Measles
Many other countries still have measles outbreaks, including some countries in Europe, Asia (Philippines, Vietnam and China), Africa and India. There have also been outbreaks in the Pacific in parts of Australia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.
Before you travel, check if you have had two measles vaccinations. Babies and children who are travelling may need to have their measles vaccination earlier than usual. Measles vaccination is free for New Zealand residents who need it.
After you travel, call your doctor or Healthline on 0800 611 116 if anyone gets unwell within 3 weeks of returning from your trip. Read more about measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. Hepatitis B virus is spread through contact with blood or other body fluids of an infected person. The virus attacks the liver causing hepatitis.
You are at increased risk of hepatitis B if you are:
- unvaccinated
- travelling to areas with higher rates of hepatitis B in parts of Asia and the Pacific
- travelling for medical reasons –travelling to another country for medical treatment such as surgery or dental work. This includes people going back to their home country for medical treatment. This increases your risk because medical services in some countries may not check blood or blood products for some infections.
Hepatitis B vaccine is part of the National Immunisation schedule in New Zealand. You may not be vaccinated if you were born in New Zealand before 1972. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, check with your GP.
If you are at increased risk of hepatitis B, talk to your GP about getting hepatitis B vaccination before you travel. You will need 3 doses of vaccine over 6 months. However, for rapid protection, an accelerated schedule is available where 3 doses can be administered over 21 days (with a booster dose 12 months later). Talk to your doctor about this option if you need it.
Read more about hepatitis B.
Tetanus
Tetanus occurs all around the world, and international travel does not usually increase the risk. However, people who are doing aid work, such as building or demolishing buildings, may be at higher risk. Anyone who is not vaccinated against tetanus is at risk they are injured by a contaminated object, uses injection drugs, or has a medical procedure with poor hygiene. A booster vaccine that is combined with diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) may be advised before travel. Read more about tetanus.
