Moving abroad is an incredible opportunity, but it also means reviewing your health fundamentals. Before you pack your bags, there’s a crucial step that’s all too often forgotten: updating your vaccination record. Certain diseases may be more common in your host country, and some vaccinations are even required to enter the country.
Having an up-to-date carnet is essential, not only for safe travel, but also to make it easier for you to settle in for the long term and deal with local authorities and doctors.
Vaccinations by world region
First and foremost, make sure that your “routine” vaccinations (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Poliomyelitis, Pertussis – DTPP – and Measles, Mumps, Rubella – MMR) are up to date, whatever your destination. Specific needs vary according to the region of the world and your type of stay.
| Region / Country | Recommended vaccines | Comments |
| Africa | Yellow fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies | Yellow fever compulsory for certain African countries; hepatitis A and typhoid for travel in rural areas. |
| Asia | Hepatitis A and B, Japanese encephalitis, Typhoid, Rabies | Japanese encephalitis recommended in Southeast Asia and certain rural countries. |
| Latin America | Yellow fever, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid | Yellow fever required for certain entries; booster shots according to length of stay. |
| North America & Europe | Routine booster shots (tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough), influenza, Hepatitis A sometimes | Most vaccines are already covered by the national schedule; seasonal flu vaccination recommended. |
Important: Some vaccinations are compulsory for entry into the country, while others are strongly recommended depending on the geographical area and type of activity (work, volunteer work, study).
Africa
In Africa, certain infectious diseases are endemic, and vaccination is essential for prevention. Yellow fever, for example, is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes and present in many tropical regions of Africa. It is often compulsory for entry into certain countries, and a vaccination certificate is required.
Hepatitis A, transmitted by contaminated food or water, is also common in sub-Saharan Africa. Vaccination is strongly recommended, especially for prolonged stays or those in precarious hygienic conditions.
Asia
Asia’s health risks vary from region to region.Hepatitis A is endemic in many Asian countries, particularly in Southeast Asia. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers to areas where hygiene is poor.
Japanese encephalitis, a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, is present in certain rural areas of Asia, such as China, Nepal, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and elsewhere. It is recommended before any stay in high-risk conditions in rural areas, or before any expatriation to one of these countries.
Latin America
In Latin America, yellow fever is present in certain regions, notably the Amazon. Vaccination is often required for entry into certain countries, and a vaccination certificate is required.
Hepatitis A andB are also common in this region. Vaccination is recommended, especially for extended stays or stays in unhygienic conditions.
Europe and North America
In these regions, basic vaccinations are generally covered by national schedules. However, booster vaccinations may be necessary, notably for tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough and influenza.
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How to track and manage your vaccination record abroad
Paper notebook vs. digital notebook
- Paper booklet: recognized everywhere, easy to show at health checks.
- Digital notebook: handy for saving information and scheduling reminders. Reliable apps for expatriates include MyHealth, WHO Yellow Card app or local apps depending on the country.
Tips and tricks
- Take photos or scan your notebook for digital backup.
- Use alarms or a calendar to set reminders.
- Coordinate with local doctors to adapt your vaccinations to local availability and requirements.
Practical advice for expatriates
Before going abroad, it’s important to consult a doctor or vaccination center to find out about any specific requirements. You should also plan ahead, as some vaccinations require several doses spread over several weeks. Remember to check the health requirements specific to your destination country, such as yellow fever or polio, and adapt your vaccinations according to the type of expatriation you are planning: work, study, volunteer or humanitarian missions may require specific vaccinations.
The importance of international health insurance
International health insurance is essential for any expatriate wishing to live or work abroad with peace of mind. Unlike local insurance, it offers comprehensive coverage, tailored to the specific needs of travelers and expatriates, including routine medical care, hospitalization, specialized consultations and even repatriation in the event of an emergency. It also enables you to benefit from an international healthcare network, and to be reimbursed more quickly and flexibly than local systems. Opting for international health insurance means protecting yourself against unforeseen medical circumstances, while guaranteeing peace of mind so you can make the most of your experience abroad.
Ready for your next trip abroad?
Prevention is essential to make the most of your expatriation. Keeping your vaccination record up to date and consulting a health professional on a regular basis will enable you to travel with peace of mind and protect you against local diseases.
Don’t forget: your expatriate health starts with prevention and the proper organization of your vaccinations.
