The Gambia
The Gambia, located in West Africa, is a small country known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and abundant wildlife. Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities such as visiting nature reserves to see monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds, taking a boat ride on the Gambia River, or exploring the bustling markets and historic sites in the capital city of Banjul. The country is also home to several luxury resorts and hotels, offering visitors a chance to relax and unwind in a tropical paradise. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and unique blend of African and European influences, The Gambia is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable experience.
Routine Immunizations
Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before traveling. Note that many vaccines that are now considered "routine" were not available until recent decades so you may not have received them at all, depending on your age and other factors. Here are a few specific vaccines we would like to call your attention to:
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Flu, RSV and Covid-19: Make sure you are up-to-date to minimize your risk of ruining your trip due to illness.
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Tetanus should be updated every 10 years especially if you're traveling.
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Hepatitis A and B: Hepatitis B was not part of the routine immunization schedule in the U.S. until 1995 and hepatitis A did not become a part of routine childhood immunizations until 2006. So if you were born before 2005 you may need one or both of these vaccines. Many people opt for Hep A only because it is commonly spread through food and water, but Hep B spread through blood and other body fluids is essential too--especially if you find yourself in an under-resourced hospital in the developing world.
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Polio: There is currently a global outbreak of polio and the U.S. CDC is recommending adults who have been fully immunized as children get a single life-time booster as an adult before traveling to many global destinations. The CDC's list of polio outbreak countries is constantly updating so check the CDC's polio list to see if your destination is on the list.
Infants, 6 to 11 months old should receive one dose of MMR and Hepatitis A prior to visiting The Gambia. This does not count toward routine childhood immunizations.
The Gambia Immunization Recommendations and Requirements
Talk to a travel health specialist
At Away Clinic we specialize in getting travelers ready for their trips to the world's most exotic destinations. We would be glad to assist you at the following locations:
To set up an appointment, see our self-scheduling page, call us at (480) 712-8865, or email us.
