Doctor's Corner: Immunization Recommendations

The following is a recommendation made by our Tour Physician regarding our tour party. He has invited people to contact him with questions about health issues. 

CONTACT DR. FREILICH:  Email or 847-835-2393

Everyone should get vaccinated for Hepatitis A. This consists of two injections, six months apart. The first injection should be at least 4-6 weeks before we leave. It will provide protection. The second injection, 6 months later, can be given before or after we return and will
provide long lasting protection. 

Typhoid is optional, but I think it would be advisable for everyone. It is available either as an injection or an oral capsule, 4 doses given every other day over the course of a week. This should be given at least 4-6 weeks before departure. 

Everyone should have had a Tetanus booster within the past ten years. Hepatitis B is not essential, due to the low risk.  Our main risk is likely to be traveler's diarrhea. Cipro (500 mg twice daily) is a good antibiotic to treat this. Everyone should bring their own antibiotic as well as Immodium (anti-diarrheal) for symptomatic treatment.  It may be difficult to find Western medicines in Chinese pharmacies, so each traveler should bring their own supply of cold medications such as Tylenol and Sudafed,etc. Any illness should be reported to me so I can assist in monitoring the use of medications. Of course, all medical issues will be kept confidential.  All of these issues should be discussed with each traveler's personal physician. 

I would like to talk with anyone who has chronic health issues. It would be advisable to supply a duplicate backup supply of medication, which I could carry in case it's needed. 

Eric Williamson has provided the webpage address for the Center for Disease Control which offers specific information about travel in China. Their site is... http://www.cdc.gov/travel/eastasia.htm