If you're traveling outside the United States, you should review your immunization record with your doctor to make sure you are up to date. Standard vaccines include hepatitis, tetanus, and polio. You also may want to consider getting flu and pneumonia vaccines. If you are traveling to certain underdeveloped areas of the world, you may need shots or drugs for yellow fever, malaria, and other diseases. Schedule your doctor's appointment about two months before you leave.
Some vaccines take six weeks to become highly effective.
Before you leave, review the material from your health plan that explains how to access medical care when you're away from home.