Start early
Some vaccines require multiple doses weeks apart (hepatitis B series, Japanese encephalitis). Book travel consults 6–8 weeks before departure when possible.
Destination drives risk
Urban Europe differs from rural tropics. Malaria chemoprophylaxis, yellow fever, and typhoid depend on region, season, lodging, and activities. Official guidance changes—check Health Canada travel health and CDC Travelers’ Health close to your trip.
Special situations
Pregnancy, immune suppression, asplenia, or chronic illness may change vaccine choices. Live vaccines may be restricted if you take biologics—bring your medication list.
Traveler’s diarrhea and water
Hand hygiene and safe water strategies reduce risk; discuss standby antibiotics only with a clinician—avoid self-prescribing.
Return home ill?
Fever after malaria-endemic travel is an emergency until proven otherwise—seek same-day care and disclose travel history.
Written by Dr. Payman Shahabi
Head of Family Medicine
Dr. Payman Shahabi, MD, PhD, CCFP, leads family medicine at Trita. He is a family physician and hospitalist, faculty in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University, with a PhD in personalized medicine and pharmacogenetics and residency training at Université Laval. His practice emphasizes continuity, prevention, and evidence-based care.
