Be prepared before you leave on your trip abroad. While immunizations are not required to return to the United States, you may be required to verify that your immunization records are current before entering some countries. Under the International Health Regulations adopted by the World Health Organization, a country may require International Certificates of Vaccination against yellow fever, especially if you are traveling from an area of the world that is infected with yellow fever. Prophylactic medication for malaria and certain other preventive measure are advisable for travel to some countries.

To learn more about the destination you plan to visit, contact your doctor or travel clinic or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention web site. It provides complete and up-to-date health information by destination, current disease outbreaks, vaccination recommendations, how to avoid illness from food and water, and much more.