Travel Medicine
Before you leave the United States, get information and care to protect your health. See a travel medicine specialist at Virginia Hospital Center.
What's Travel Medicine
Travel medicine is healthcare to prevent diseases and injuries that may happen when you travel outside of the country.
When Should I Visit a Doctor?
Make an appointment four to six weeks before your trip. That way, if you need more than one dose of a vaccine, there’s enough time for the medication to become effective in your body.
Prepare for Your Appointment
Be ready to talk about your health history and your travel plans. Bring a list of all the places you’ll visit.
Services We Offer
Count on one of our friendly, knowledgeable doctors to answer your questions and offer information specific to the location you’ll be visiting. You’ll receive:
- Education about diseases and potential causes of harm
- Immunizations to prevent conditions like hepatitis, typhoid, malaria or rabies, if needed
- Information about staying safe when traveling and how to manage health conditions you currently have
Stay Healthy When You Travel
In addition to seeing a travel medicine specialist, help prevent health problems when you travel by following these guidelines:
- Avoid dehydration and diarrhea by drinking bottled, purified or boiled water
- Get plenty of sleep
- Stretch and move regularly on long flights and stop to stretch and walk around during long car trips
- Wash your hands often
- Use sunscreen
