Travel Vaccines and Advice for the United States
Due to its history of being the “melting pot” of the world, the United States is a large country that is rich in diverse cultures, lifestyles, and populations. Due to its size and varying geographical features, every region in the United States has its own unique culture and traditions. This can make traveling to the United States exciting, for you are likely to experience a variety of cultures while there.
The majority of the United States population, identify themselves as Christian, with about 70% of the population. Other common religions include Jewish, Muslim, and non-religious populations.
There is no official language of the United States, though the national language is English. Spanish is also a common language spoken.
The capital city of the United States is Washington D.C. with other major cities including Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for United States?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in United States
What Is the Climate Like in United States?
How Safe Is United States?
National Parks in the United States
What Should I Take to the United States?
Do I Need Vaccines for United States?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for United States. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for United States: hepatitis A, polio, chikungunya, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. - Chikungunya –
Mosquito –
Limited local transmission in Texas and Florida. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for United States |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travelers to any destination. |
| Chikungunya | Mosquito | Limited local transmission in Texas and Florida. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for United States |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the CDC.
- Chikungunya – Chikungunya, transmitted through mosquito bites, can be prevented by avoiding mosquito-infested areas and use of repellents. Vaccination is considered the best form of protection.
- Rabies – Rabies, a deadly viral disease, spreads via bites or scratches from infected animals. Vaccination is the cornerstone of prevention, including post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for suspected exposures and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for individuals with regular animal contact or travelers.
- Hepatitis B – Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus, transmitted through blood, sexual contact, or from mother to child during birth. It can become chronic, leading to liver failure or cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine, given as a series of injections, effectively prevents this infection.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) are viral infections with distinct symptoms. They spread through respiratory droplets and close contact. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MMR infections, with the MMR vaccine offering protection against all three diseases.
All medical facilities must treat emergencies, whether you’re able to pay or not for the cost.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in United States
Prevent Bug Bites in United States
To ward off bug bites, follow CDC advice: wear long clothing, use screens, and remove standing water. Opt for EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or OLE for protection. If bitten, wash the area, avoid scratching, and apply remedies. Seek medical help for severe reactions.
Food and Water Safety in United States
When abroad, prioritize food safety by adhering to CDC guidelines: opt for fully cooked dishes, steer clear of raw seafood, and choose eateries with good hygiene practices. Stick to bottled beverages, be cautious with ice, and drink alcohol responsibly. Prevent travelers’ diarrhea through vigilant hand hygiene and avoiding unsanitary street food.
Altitude Sickness in United States
Altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), occurs when oxygen levels decrease at high elevations, leading to symptoms like headaches and nausea. Prevent AMS by ascending slowly, staying hydrated, and considering medications like acetazolamide. If symptoms persist or worsen, descend to lower altitudes and seek medical attention if needed.
What Is the Climate Like in United States?
The climate in the United States varies based on the state and region.
The Southwest region has a dry, desert climate with hot days and cold nights. Temperatures can range from the 40’s to 100’s.
The Gulf Coast has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Temperatures can range from the 40’s to 90’s.
The Southern Plains has a temperate climate with cold winters and hot summers. Due to this, the temperature can change due to what season it is. Temperatures can get as high as the 90’s in the summer and as cold as the 20’s in the winter.
The Northern Great Plains hosts a humid continental climate. This climate hosts four distinct seasons with temperatures and precipitation varying. In the summer, it can get as hot as the 80’s and the winter can see temperatures below 0.
The Pacific Northwest has an oceanic climate. The weather is wet and cool in most seasons, but becomes drier in the summer. Temperatures usually range from the 50’s to the 70’s.
How Safe Is United States?
Theft and pick-pocketing are common in urban areas in the United States. Never leave your valuables alone or out of sight in heavily populated areas.
Credit card fraud can also be common, especially during holiday periods. Make sure your card is always in sight and make sure to check into your bank account regularly.
Violent crime can occur in disadvantaged areas due to gang violence. The chance of a tourist being involved in violent crimes such as this is low.
National Parks in the United States
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
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Due to its diverse landscapes and many different climates, the United States is home to a variety of natural wonders. It is home to 58 National Parks and each of them offer something new and beautiful for travelers.
One of the most popular national parks in the United States is Yellowstone National Park. This national park located in Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana, spans over 3,000 square miles. The park hosts natural wonders such as Old Faithful (a geyser), wildlife such as bison and wolves, and the Rocky Mountains.
If you travel to Yellowstone National Park, you should be educated on how to stay safe, especially when you encounter a bear. Bring bear spray and study how to approach the situation.
The entrance fee to the park is $30 a vehicle and the pass is good for seven days.
What Should I Take to the United States?
Though your packing list will probably vary depending on what region you’re traveling to, here are some essential items to consider for your trip to the United States:
- Bring layers so you can be comfortable in a variety of temperatures.
- Good walking shoes for visiting tourist areas
- Backpack, purse or other carrier for any layered clothing
If you have any questions about traveling through the United States or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
Customer Reviews
Passport Health Travel Vaccines for the United States
“The staff was friendly and helpful. We showed up early and were taken early. Everything was patiently explained in detail by the nurse including pricing and levels of necessity.”
“I was very impressed with the service we received. I hadn’t expected to receive all of the travel information and was really appreciative of that.”
“We had a very pleasant visit to Passport Health today. I was a bit apprehensive about the shots and if the medicine would make me sick. We both did well and the nurse was very competent, informative and made us feel very comfortable.”
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