Tuberculosis is often thought of as a plague of the past. It’s true that for many in the late 1800s and early 1900s, the dreaded “consumption” was a death sentence. The disease didn’t discriminate between the rich or the poor, young or old. In fact, it took the lives of some of the most iconic thinkers and artists of the past two centuries, including Frederic Chopin, Edgar Allen Poe, Emily Bronte, Eleanor Roosevelt, George Orwell and Vivien Leigh.

In his novel “Nicholas Nickleby,” Charles Dickens described consumption as a disease which “wealth never warded off,” and “in which death and life are so strangely blended, that death takes the glow and hue of life, and life the gaunt and grisly form of death.”

Patients lost weight and color, and carried handkerchiefs into which they coughed up blood.

Since the discovery of antibiotics streptomycin and isoniazid in 1944 and 1952, which were found to be effective in treating and preventing against the TB bacteria, the number of cases has decreased.

In the United States there has been on a sharp decline since 1992. With this big decline comes the misconception that the bacteria has been eradicated. This is not the case.

Though we don’t see the prevalence seen in the past, we are still at risk for tuberculosis infection. It’s important to understand tuberculosis and keep TB prevention in mind.

[Read more…]

Vaccinations almost seem like a simple math problem. Take the vaccine, add it to your body and there’s no risk of catching the disease for the rest of your life.

But a lot of the time, vaccines aren’t that simple.

Many vaccines require a booster shot after the initial dose to continue preventing the disease. The problem is, countless people ignore the need for a booster shot to stay disease-free in the future.

Why Are Booster Shots Necessary?

Some diseases are more resilient than others. Over time the body can lose the antibodies first provided by a vaccination, leaving it open to the disease once again. After an initial vaccination, the body sometimes needs a wake-up call to continue preventing a disease in the form of a booster shot.

Without these reminders via boosters, there can be resurgent outbreaks of the disease.

Take Russia’s diphtheria outbreak in the early 1990’s.

Diphtheria was an epidemic throughout Russia during the 1950’s, with children the most likely to contract the disease. A vaccine was introduced in 1958 and within five years the number of cases greatly decreased.

The number of diphtheria cases remained low in Russia for over 30 years until a severe outbreak of the disease in the 1990’s. There were almost 40,000 reported cases in 1994 compared to little more than 1,000 cases in 1990.

The only difference between the epidemics is that adults became far more likely to catch the disease in the 1990’s. The same children that were first immunized decades earlier ran low on the antibodies for diphtheria.

This outbreak changed the plan for the diphtheria vaccine in the future. Continue vaccinating children, but keep up immunization by giving booster shots throughout adulthood.

Why Do Some Infections Require Booster Vaccine?

The body remembers how to fight diseases. That’s why vaccines work for long periods of time. The body had the antibodies to fight sickness before and can make them again.

Do you remember us saying that the body needs reminders to fight diseases? That was not an exaggeration, as the body uses immunological memory to remember to create antibodies and fight disease.

But like the rest of the body, this system gets older and slower. The immune system will take longer to create antibodies when exposed to a disease.

If the disease is fast-acting and the antibodies are taking just long enough, then the pathogens win and you get sick.

When Do You Need A Booster Vaccine?

Some diseases are well-known for their annual booster vaccines.

The flu shot is targeted at certain influenza strains present in that year, so a new vaccine is necessary with every annual flu season.

For many other vaccines though, the need for a booster depends on other details. Booster shots may be needed if you were born before a vaccine became a legal requirement or in a region of the world that did not provide the immunization.

Booster vaccines may also be necessary to travel outside of the country. Some diseases that have been eradicated in certain regions, like Polio or Typhoid in the U.S. and Canada, are still active in other parts of the world.

Travel Vaccinations that Require Boosters:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis A & B
• Japanese Encephalitis
• Meningitis
• Polio (for some individuals)
• Rabies (pre- and post-exposure)
• Typhoid
• Yellow Fever

Routine Vaccinations that Require Boosters:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella
• Chickenpox
• HPV
• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis
• Influenza

It is not only important to check if you will need a booster vaccine, but also to remember when it will be needed.

If you are unsure of your vaccination history, consider titer testing to learn if you are immune. Your local Passport Health clinic can help, book your appointment today by calling or schedule online now.

To learn more about these immunization or titer testing, see our vaccinations and titer testing portals.

Have you ever been infected with an illness you thought you were immune to? Share your thoughts on booster vaccines and their importance to your health in our comments section below, on Twitter or via Facebook.

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Florida’s has several good reasons to be called “The Sunshine State.” With treasures like Walt Disney World, white sand beaches, and the Everglades, it’s a wonderful place to visit. But, due to recent cases of Zika, you may need to think twice before planning your trip.

We’ve heard enough about Zika by now to be fairly familiar with specifics. Talk of Zika was at the forefront of the concerns about the Rio Olympics. But, with cases spreading it’s important to revisit the basic questions of who, what, where, and when. It’s back to the essentials.

Because of the current rapid transmission rates, consider a few things before leaving Canada for your Floridian getaway.

Who Should Be Concerned with Zika?

• Pregnant women– Doctors should consider testing all pregnant women that have travelled to known Zika affected area. Pregnant women that live in or have travelled to a Zika affected area during their pregnancy should be tested in first and second trimesters.
• Partners of pregnant women– If a pregnant woman has had unprotected sex with a partner that has traveled to an area with high Zika concern, the pregnant woman should talk to their healthcare provider and be tested.
• Women thinking of getting pregnant or of reproductive age– Women should be cautious of travel if there is a possibility they could be pregnant or become pregnant. For those not wanting to become pregnant but are of reproductive age, follow a good contreceptive strategy.

In general, the PHAC advises that pregnant women, partners of pregnant women, and women thinking of becoming pregnant should avoid travel to this areas if possible, or at least avoid all nonessential travel.

For couples looking to become pregnant, be cautious with travel. If one of the partners shows symptoms of Zika, they should wait for a time before trying to get pregnant again. If the woman experienced symptoms, the couple should wait at least 8 weeks. If the man showed symptoms, the couple should wait at least 6 months before trying.

How Serious is Zika in Florida?

Over 600 travel-related cases of Zika and over 50 non-travel related infections have been reported in Florida. At least 84 pregnant women have tested positive for the Zika virus. Some of these women have already given birth.

The spread of this mosquito-borne illness raised enough alarm that the Florida governor is urging residents to get rid of any standing water and use bug spray. He also enlisted help from the CDC for a special emergency response team to help Florida’s Department of Health fight the virus.

Where and When Is the Biggest Risk?

The CDC website issued an advisory to people that live in or have traveled to the Miami Beach area after July 14. It said these instructions apply to anyone that traveled to or live in the specific Wynwood area of Miami after June 15. This is where the first cases occured.

The Zika virus has a maximum two-week incubation period.

There hasn’t been much evidence to show that Zika has impacted travel to Florida. But, cases continue to occur. Travelers could get lucky with flexible refund policies or lower rates.

Do you need more information on Zika virus? Check out our Zika page! Do you have questions about other mosquito-borne illnesses or need supplies? We can help! Set up an appointment with a Passport Health specialist by calling or booking online now.

But, there are some things you just can’t plan for. As even the most experienced travelers know, the best plans can fall apart in a second.

Unfortunately, travelers aren’t immune to illness or accidents. Your body is more vulnerable to sickness when traveling. You’re in a new environment being exposed to all kinds of unfamiliar things. Also, accidents can happen as you move from place to place.

In case of accident or illness, how do you know if you should stay or go? You don’t want to give up on the trip you spent months planning, but you also don’t want to put yourself at risk.

There isn’t an easy answer to this question. It depends. In making this decision, consider the following factors and ask yourself a few questions.

Severity of illness– How sick are you? Are these new symptoms or a flare up of an existing condition? You may be sick with a common cold or unexpected allergies from unfamiliar plants. If you are familiar with your symptoms and have medicine to treat them, you may be uncomfortable for a few days but you would be okay to stay. But, if you are experiencing unfamiliar or concerning symptoms, you may need to leave.

You know your body. If something is clearly wrong, seek out medical attention to attend to any immediate problems and consider making plans to go home.

Location– Where are you? There is a wide range in quality of healthcare around the world. Healthcare in developed countries will be better than healthcare in developing countries. But, even then it varies. If you’re unsure about the healthcare system where you are, International SOS provides helpful resources for international healthcare options. If the healthcare options look bleak, head home.

Also, Johns Hopkins recommends contacting the Canadian Embassy or Consulate. The consular officers can provide you with a list of medical professionals in the area. The officers will inform your family and friends if your illness is serious.

Length of stay– How long will you be there? If you’re near the end of your trip, you could consider leaving a little early to make sure symptoms don’t get worse. If this is an extended stay, you can work with good local healthcare options to gauge the severity of the issue before making further plans.

Though you can’t prepare for those unexpected emergencies, you can do a lot beforehand to make your life easier in this regard. Your preparations should always include illness prevention and health care awareness.

The following are some of the best ways to prepare:

• Make sure to get the necessary vaccinations in enough time before you leave. Passport Health can help you prepare with pre-travel consultations and vaccinations.
• Bring medicines from home that you are familiar with and comfortable taking.
• Fill out the information page on the inside of your passport, which will have you list the information for an emergency contact.
• Carry a letter from your primary care doctor that includes a list of all pre-existing medical conditions and your prescriptions, including their generic names.
• Bring your medications, but carry them in their clearly labeled, original containers.
• Educate yourself on prevalent local diseases. Be aware that if you are going to a developing country, those diseases are more common in rural areas.

Do you need help making preparations and getting the vaccines for your next big trip? Book an appointment with a Passport Health Specialist by calling or scheduling online now.

Do you have an interesting story about getting ill abroad or even more advice? Let us know! Contact us on Facebook or via Twitter!

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Perhaps you’ve been on a road trip where the shotgun seat is not only coveted, but a matter of life and death, because a couple members of the group are prone to motion sickness. If you are one of these people, you likely sympathize with the dread of inescapable nausea and dizziness that come with even just a short ride in the car, train, bus, plane (you get the idea). This can make travelling stressful for everyone in your group.

Unfortunately, motion sickness isn’t an uncommon ailment. According to one study, 1-in-3 people are highly susceptible to it.

Why Do Some People Get Motion Sick?

There’s limited understanding about the causes of motion sickness. Research by genetics firm 23andMe shows motion sickness may be just one genetic oddity.

23andMe conducted the first genome-wide association study on motion sickness, using 80,000 23andMe customers. This project produced some fascinating insights into the heredity of motion sickness.

According to their research, 70% of the risk for motion sickness is genetic. In fact, 35 different genetic variants are significantly linked to motion sickness.

Some of these variants are developmental. This includes development of the eye and ear. Other variants are associated with neurological processes, glucose levels, and insulin regulation. There were also some sex-specific effects. For example, motion sickness in women could be up to three times stronger.

The study also confirmed motion sickness is associated with other conditions. These include things like migraines, vertigo, and morning sickness.

The 23andMe researchers also found that there appear to be significant associations between motions sickness and lifestyle. Poor sleep patterns or headaches after drinking red wine increased could be connected to motion sickness. Handling stress well and a good sense of direction decreased the likelihood of motion sickness.

Researchers at Penn State came up with another set of findings. They decided to focus on how race affects motion sickness. They found 80% of Asians experienced it, while less than 50% of African-Americans and/or Caucasian-Americans were affected.

How Can I Avoid Motion Sickness?

This research provides foundation for finding better treatments, or even a cure, for motion sickness. This gives hope to those who experience anxiety and discomfort in travelling on a daily basis. But, many of these treatments are years away.

Here are some ways to lessen the effects of motion sickness today:

• Try To Prevent It– The best way to avoid motion sickness is to prevent it. It’s nearly impossible to avoid travelling in moving vehicles, especially during a big adventure. But, lessening the frequency and reducing the amount of time spent in a vehicle will help.
• Reduce The Symptoms– Medications like Dramamine or Transderm Scop can lessen the effects of motion sickness. Consult a health professional if you have any concerns before using these.
• Focus In The Right Place– Focus on a point, like the horizon, outside of the moving vehicle rather than on something that will be moving with you (like a book, phone, or tablet screen).
• Avoid Alcohol and Cigarettes– These items can enhance any dizziness, nausea, or other sickness you feel while moving.
• Carefully Choose Your Seat– Make sure to choose a seat that will allow you to a good view of the horizon. Offer to drive when possible. The front seat is always a great option. While in the vehicle, keep your head and body as still as possible. Sit facing forward, with the seat slightly reclined.
• Increase Air Circulation– Roll down the windows and breathe in the fresh air. When unable to do so, sit in a place to feel the air conditioning on your face.
• Sleep– When all else fails, try to sleep along the way.

Do you suffer from motion sickness and have other tips for how to avoid it? Comment below or contact us on Facebook or via Twitter!

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The vaccination costs can often cause people to avoid receiving them. Usually, this is an attempt to save money by choosing to delay, or avoid certain vaccines.

Unfortunately, choosing to go unvaccinated can end up having the opposite effect. Treating vaccine-preventable diseases can be many times more expensive than the vaccine! A recent study provided a comprehensive look at the real value of vaccines.

Are Vaccines Worth the Cost?

The “cost-of-illness” tries to figure out how many dollars are saved for every dollar spent. But, this does not paint the most complete picture of the amount saved by vaccinating. It only includes the costs like medication, hospitalization, lost production at work and finding care. When using this method, researchers found that $16 USD was saved on every $1 USD spent.

The “Full Income Approach” seeks to find the complete value of vaccines. The research team attempted to find the value that people associated with living longer, healthier lives. This extra amount was added to the money saved on healthcare costs. This method also considers the broader economic and social benefits that vaccines bring. These costs can include management of a public outbreak, and the cost to the community. After compiling their data, researchers found that the actual amount saved is closer to $44 USD per $1 USD spent on vaccines.

It’s amazing that the amount of money we save by vaccinating increases by almost 275% in the second study. But it makes sense, because the value attached to comfort and being healthy is more than just productivity lost at work. It means living a full life, and having the freedom to do what you want. The choice seems pretty clear, vaccination is the savvier, more fiscally responsible move.

What Is the Global Vaccine Action Plan?

The world’s poorest countries often suffer from the lowest standards of living. These countries also tend to have higher rates of death due to infectious and preventable disease. The Global Vaccine Action Plan seeks to provide three crucial childhood immunizations to the world’s 73 poorest nations. According to Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, vaccines can prevent the loss of 3.7 million lives and over $63 billion USD.

These are common vaccines in the Canada, and are widely available to travellers.

• Meningitis
• Pneumonia
• Polio
• Tdap
• MMR

These diseases can be easily avoided in wealthier countries. But they low standard of healthcare in developing nations makes this a danger for locals, as well as travellers looking to visit. That’s why it’s important to make sure that all your regular vaccinations don’t require boosters prior to your trip. They aren’t as exotic as yellow fever, but they are just as harmful and should be regarded as such.

Worth The Price – Every Time

Some vaccines can seem expensive, but the diseases they prevent are much costlier. Many people undervalue vaccinations, even when there are billions of people without that privilege. These individuals don’t always live in poverty, either. The immunocompromised, the elderly and the very-young may not be vaccine-eligible.

The effect of herd immunity as a tool of societal protection is huge, and often understated. We are able to keep others safe from disease, because we take care of ourselves. The price to keep ourselves, and our neighbors, healthy is small compared to the cost of getting sick.

If you’re planning to leave Canada, make sure you are protected. The numbers never lie, it’s fiscally responsible. Call us at or book online to schedule an appointment with our travel health specialists today!

Have you ever weighed the price of the vaccine with the cost of the disease? How did you come to your conclusion? What factors led you to vaccinate? Share your story with us on Facebook or join us on Twitter!

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Vietnam is a land bathed in natural beauty. Lush valleys extend below cloud-piercing mountains and blue-green rivers wind their way through the countryside.

In contrast, Vietnam’s major cities are large and cosmopolitan. A diverse cuisine characterized by the freshest ingredients and a disciplined application of spices.

Together, the mix of old and new makes the country a must-see for any traveller. But, it’s important to make sure you are ready for your journey. Vietnam is a developing nation and a little extra preparation is needed for any trip.

Which Vaccinations Do I Need for Vietnam?

There are plenty of reasons to travel to Vietnam, but it’s important to be healthy during your trip. Mosquito- and foodborne illnesses are common in Vietnam. Take proper precautions before you leave to ensure an exciting, safe and fulfilling visit.

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommend the following vaccines for Vietnam:

Vaccine	How It Spreads
Typhoid	Contaminated Food and Water
Cholera	Contaminated Food and Water
Japanese Encephalitis	Mosquito-borne
Hepatitis A	Contaminated Food and Water
Hepatitis B	Bodily Fluids (Sharing Needles, Sexual Contact, etc.)
Rabies	Saliva, Bites, Scratches From Infected Animals
Measles	Contact With Infected People
Influenza	Airborne By Infected People

What Else Can I Do To Stay Healthy In Vietnam?

Vaccinations are just the first part of preparing Vietnam. Unfortunately, not every infection or situation is vaccine-preventable. Some things need extra awareness or just a few more items in your bag.

• Traveller’s Diarrhea– This symptom of an infection affects up to 70 percent of travellers worldwide. Vietnam is no exception. Consider bringing a traveller’s diarrhea kit containing a remedy like DiaResQ.
• Dengue Fever– This mosquito-borne disease is present in Vietnam. Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, boots, and hats. Consider using a bednet when sleeping, especially if you’ll be outside.
• Zika Virus– The WHO reported a few cases of Zika in Vietnam in early 2016. Zero cases have been reported since that time. The PHAC advises travellers take precautions to avoid the virus.
• Reduce Exposure to Germs– Wash your hands with soap often. Washing your hands with soap and water before eating can prevent a variety of infections. If soap or clean water are not available use a sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Theft– Petty crime against tourists is increasing, particularly in larger cities. Try and travel in groups, and be aware of your surroundings. Motorcyclists sometimes try and snatch purses or shoulders bags from travellers. Cut a bag open to get to the contents is another common practice. Try to limit displays of affluence or wealth while in public.
• Travelling Within Vietnam– Try and stick to areas that you have familiarized yourself with. Travel in authorized, official taxis and NEVER share a taxi with a stranger. Driving standards are poor and road maintenance is worse. In Vietnam, be an alert and defensive pedestrian.

Where Should I Visit In Vietnam?

• Hanoi– Ancient buildings and glass skyscrapers decorate the 1000 year-old skyline. This city houses much of country’s foodie-culture, allow tourists to taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
• Ha Long Bay– This beautiful region draws scuba divers, rock climbers and hikers to its emerald shores. The jungle-topped, limestone islands tower above the bay creating a beautiful views.
• Cu Chi Tunnels– A historic tunnel system located about 40km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. These were used as a base of operations for the Viet Cong during the Tet Offensive of the Vietnam War in 1968. Some of the areas of this interconnected system of passages are open to tourists.

Do you have any sightseeing recommendations for other travellers headed to Vietnam? Any crucial travelling tips for a better experience? Let us know by visiting us on Facebook or leaving us comment on Twitter!

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam? Call Passport Health at or book online to schedule a consultation with one of our travel health specialists! Together, we can develop a plan to keep you safe while you explore what the world has to offer.

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The beautiful landscape of the Peruvian countryside thousands of travelers every year. Home to wonders like Machu Picchu and Cusco, it’s no wonder it is such a popular destination.

Which Vaccines Do I Need For Peru?

Peruvian travel poses many health risks as well. Food- and mosquito-borne illnesses are common in more rural areas of the country. Fortunately, many of the diseases that exist in Peru are vaccine preventable. The PHAC recommends the following vaccines for Peru:

Vaccine	How It Spreads
Typhoid	Food- and Waterborne
Cholera	Food- and Waterborne
Yellow Fever	Mosquitoborne
Hepatitis A	Food- and Waterborne
Hepatitis B	Person-to-Person Usually by Blood or Sex
Influenza	Person-to-Person Usually Coughing
Rabies	Animal-borne
Measles	Person-to-Person Usually Coughing

Of course, there are some diseases that cannot be vaccinated against. Here are some of the other health risks that travel to Peru can pose:

• Altitude sickness– Known as soroche in Peru, altitude sickness is caused by insufficient oxygen in the blood. This is common in altitudes 2500m above sea-level. Our travel health specialists can prescribe medication to reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Street food– Even though street food can be the most authentic, there is often no oversight or regulation. The Public Health Agency generally advises against consuming street food. If you must consume street food, steer clear of salads or foods that are not served piping hot.
• Water Sources– The drinking water in Peru is not as clean as the water in North America. It may have foreign bacteria that your gut is unfamiliar with. This can cause digestive distress. Best practice is to avoid tap water and ice. Consider bringing a water filter, or at least purchasing bottled water.
• Dengue Fever– Where there are mosquitoes and tropical climates, dengue is sure to follow. The best way to avoid this nasty bug is to use a strong repellent. Always wear loose clothing that covers your arms and legs during sunset and sunrise when mosquitoes are most active.
• Zika Virus– This disease has been reported in Peru and is usually spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. It can spread through sexual contact with an infected person. This disease can cause birth defects in babies born to pregnant mothers who have it. The same guidelines for dengue fever apply here.
• Chikungunya– An outbreak is ongoing in Peru. Mosquitoes spread this viral disease. Make sure to pack loose clothing and a strong repellent!

What Else Should I Know For My Trip To Peru?

When you arrive in Peru, you will be given an Andean migration card instead of a visitor’s visa. This document is required when staying in hotels and leaving the country. Be sure to store this document safely with your passport!

If you plan on hiking the Inca Trail or Machu Picchu, pack plenty of sunscreen and stop to re-apply often. The sun is stronger than you might realize. Sunburns are possible even in cloudy weather. These are an easily preventable cause of discomfort on a vacation.

Another tip for Machu Picchu is bringing your passport along. You may or may not need it based on your specific travel plans. But, the novelty passport stamp is a great memento of your trip to Peru!

Making use of the concierge at your hotel can save you a lot of time and effort when coordinating trips. They can usually arrange long distance bus trips, or introduce you to local guides.

Planning a trip to Peru? Make an appointment with a Travel Health Specialist today by calling or booking online now.

The information above represents general travel information for Peru. For more specific advice, schedule an appointment with one of our travel health specialists. Besides vaccination, we have a variety of products to repel mosquitoes, prevent traveller’s diarrhea, and treat altitude sickness!

By considering your medical history, travel plans and the current public health situation in Peru, our specialists can tailor a plan to keep you safe while you explore the Land of the Inca.

To learn more about these vaccines see their respective pages or our main vaccinations page.

Going to Peru? Been there recently? Post your questions and answers below or contact us on Facebook or Twitter.

You’re all set to register for classes, your schedule is completely planned out. You log-in to the school’s website, hoping you can slide into one of your university’s coveted classes. You’re about to click the button to finish your registration but then you find you’ve got a hold on your account. The university needs proof of your meningitis vaccination!

Outbreaks of meningitis have been cropping up on college campuses throughout North America. Many universities in the U.S. and Canada now require students receive a meningitis vaccine.

Though it could add another item on your to-do list, getting the meningitis vaccine is important. The vaccine is key to keeping you healthy and able to pursue those big life goals.

What is Meningitis?

Meningitis comes in three forms: viral, bacterial and fungal. The disease causes an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms of meningitis include:

• High Fever
• Headache
• Stiff Neck
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Sensitivity to light
• Vomiting
• Exhaustion

The two most common form of meningitis are bacterial and viral meningitis.

What Is Bacterial Meningitis?

Meningitis bacteria spreads through contact between individuals. The bacteria moves best in situations of close social contact like kissing, sharing silverware or drinks, exchanging lipstick or cigarettes, or coughing. It can also happen over time, like after sharing living conditions for an extended period.

Bacterial meningitis is serious and can be life-threatening. Potential cases should receive immediate medical attention for the best outcome. Early treatment can prevent serious complications, like hospitalization, brain damage, amputations, and even death.

According to the CDC, bacterial meningitis is as contagious as the viruses that cause the flu.

What Is Viral Meningitis?

Viral meningitis, as it suggests, is a viral infection. A person may become infected with viral meningitis through close contact with an infected person. But, there is a small possibility of actually contracting the virus. Only a small number of people who become infected will actually develop meningitis.

Viral meningitis is considered less severe than bacterial meningitis. People with normal immune systems can sometimes overcome it on their own. Vaccination will help protect against this infection as well.

Why Do Colleges Require Meningitis Vaccination?

College life increases the risk of infection, especially diseases like meningitis. The things that make college unique and fun are also some of the reasons that students are at an increased risk for meningitis.

Close living quarters, communal areas, irregular sleep habits, big social events, and potentially unsanitary living conditions can all contribute to spreading and catching disease. Infections tend to spread fast once one case occurs. College freshmen living in dorms are especially at risk.

One study showed freshman are seven times more likely than other students to contract the disease. Understanding the significant protection vaccinations provide can motivate incoming freshmen to get it done. If an incoming freshman was vaccinated before their 16th birthday, a booster is recommended.

Roommates should be aware of potential infection.

According to Dr. Thomas Clark, a meningitis expert at the CDC, “If you live in close quarters, the roommate is at very high risk to get infected.”

He adds, “We [often] give preventative antibiotics to people who are around an infected patient.”

Meningitis vaccines protect against four strains of the bacteria. Three strains are common in North America. The fourth protects travelers venturing out to places where the disease is more common. These vaccines help the body ward off the bacteria or viruses that cause infection.

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent most strains of meningitis. College students can decrease the risk by frequently washing their hands and not sharing personal items. Even if the body is sick or run down, a vaccination can help the body protect itself against meningitis.

Receiving vaccinations will allow you to focus on the most important things in college and pursue your next great adventure!

Do you still need to receive your meningitis vaccination? Feel free to book an appointment online or call to set up an appointment with a Passport Health Specialeist.

Learn more about meningitis vaccinations through our meningitis portal.

Do you have questions about what other vaccinations may be required for college or other types of school? Do you have experiences with experience serious illness while in school? Please feel free to comment below or contact us on Facebook or via Twitter. We would love to hear from you!

Written for Passport Health by Adrienne St. Clair

There are several world religions that have a pilgrimage that believers strive to make. But, no pilgrimage can compare to the Hajj, which is the Islamic trek to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Not only is it a tough journey, but is the biggest mass gathering in the world. At least 2 million Muslims from over 180 countries attend annually. Islam requires every able-bodied Muslim to make the sojourn at least once in their lifetime.

The Hajj takes place between the 8th and 12th days of the last month of the Islamic year, Dhu al-Hijja. As Islam uses a lunar calendar, the timeframe varies. The Hajj often falls somewhere during September or October on the Gregorian calendar.

All foreign pilgrims participating in the Hajj fly into the nearby city of Jeddah. From there, they take a bus to Mecca and then continue on to Mina by bus or by foot. In Mina, the pilgrims stay in air-conditioned tents for the night to prepare for their trek the next day.

All pilgrims begin their journey at first light, starting with a long 14.4km walk to Mt. Arafat.

Throughout the trip from Mina back to Mecca, they stop at set points to take part in sacred rituals.

Back in Mecca, the travellers make their way to the Grand Mosque to visit the Ka’aba, the most sacred site in Islam. Each pilgrim will take part in rites particular to Mecca and the Grand Mosque. For example, a pilgrim perform a tawaf, circling the Ka’aba 7 times counterclockwise.

Pilgrims will leave Mecca after participating in each ritual and completing a final tawaf. Once done, their Hajj is over.

Which Vaccines Do I Need for Hajj?

No matter where you plan to travel, it’s important your routine vaccinations are up-to-date. But, if you are planning on participating in Hajj, you may need additional vaccines. The Public Health Agency of Canada and CDC recommend the following vaccines for Hajj:

Vaccinations for Hajj	Required or Recommended?
Meningitis	Required for entry
Polio	Recommended, may be required
Cholera	Recommended
Hepatitis A	Recommended
Hepatitis B	Recommended
Influenza	Recommended
Measles	Recommended
Pneumonia	May be recommended

If you are planning a trip to Hajj, be sure to speak with a travel health specialist. Our staff is uniquely suited to help you plan for your upcoming trip. Schedule your appointment today by calling or booking online now.

Other Health Risks

Due to the dense population of pilgrims during Hajj, risk increases for disease of all kinds. The stopping points where pilgrims congregate to perform rituals become crowded. These are some of the most dangerous points along the way.

Respiratory Infections and Communicable Diseases

Respiratory infections are common during Hajj. The most common reason for hospital admission being pneumonia. The Seasonal Influenza vaccine should guard against these infections. But, extra precautions are recommended including:

• Frequent washing hands
• Wearing a face mask
• Observing cough etiquette
• Avoid individuals with concerning symptoms

Seniors and travellers with immune issues should consider receiving a pneumonia vaccine.

Though less common, there is also an increased risk of tuberculosis due to the heavy crowds. See a doctor immediately if you begin to see signs of active tuberculosis.

Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome, first discovered in Saudi Arabia in 2012, is also a threat. Caused by a coronavirus, MERS is similar to the 2003 SARS virus. Cases have been identified all around the Arabian peninsula, as well as in the United States.

The virus has a wide range of symptom. Most often patients will experience fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Cases have ranged from mild to severe, but 35% of cases have been fatal.

Due to the crowded conditions, diarrhea and other communicable diseases spread easily. Awareness and prevention are key to protecting yourself against these and other issues.

Overheating

While the days of the Hajj vary from year to year, the pilgrimage will take place when the desert heat is heavy.

There are mist sprinklers to try to combat the high temperatures, but heat stroke is a major concern. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the leading causes of death during the Hajj. Travelers should take extra precautions to protect themselves against the heat. This includes staying hydrated, applying sunscreen, wearing appropriate clothing, and even using umbrellas.

Special Note for Women

Women are not allowed to perform a tawaf around the Ka’aba when they are menstruating. Consider requesting hormone suppression to help with menstruation cycles.

It’s a once in a lifetime journey.

The most important thing when planning to attend Hajj is making sure you have all necessary vaccinations. Prepare beforehand for prevention’s sake, and be aware and alert of your own needs and of others on the journey.

Do you have further questions about the Hajj or what vaccines you may need for an adventure you are planning? Feel free to contact us at or set up an appointment on our website.

Have you participated in the Hajj? Do you have any advice for future travelers to the Middle East? Please feel free to contact us on Facebook or via Twitter!

Written for Passport Health by Adrienne St. Clair