Vaccinations required if travelling

Resolved question:
I am American and I believe I am up to date on all of my regular vaccines. If I become pregnant in the next three months, would it be safe to travel to Morocco in Africa? I am certain I will need additional vaccines/immunizations, but I am unsure if they are safe for a young fetus. Thank you.

Submitted: 4 Days
Category: OBGYN

Expert:  Dr. Aarti Vazirani replied 4 Days.

Hello,
Thanks for writing to DoctorSpring.com with your health concern.

The following vaccines would be required before a trip to Morocco, and they are part of your ' regular ' or ' routine ' vaccinations - please check -
measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

In addition to these, you would need to consider the following -
1. Hepatitis A vaccine - safe during pregnancy
2. Typhoid vaccine - Avoid the oral typhoid vaccine, injectable can be given.
3. If you might have sex with a new indigenous Moroccan partner, indulge in tattooing or skin piercing, or have medical procedures that involve blood and blood products, consider Hepatitis B vaccination also.
4. If you are going to indulge in outdoor activities that put you at high risk of animal bites or animal contact , then rabies vaccine should be considered. This is generally avoided in pregnant women - take it only if your potential risk of exposure is very high.

All the best.
Please feel free to discuss further.

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