Vaccinations in the USA

Like in any great adventure, preparation is the key to success. Expatriation is a big undertaking for any individual or the whole family.

Health is one aspect of it that one just cannot gamble on. This is where vaccinations play a big part in the process of preparation.

Getting the necessary vaccinations are also important for those who are applying for an immigrant visa, as these are required for approval. 

Routine immunizations are of primary importance. These are vaccines for mumps, measles, rubella (MMR), as well as diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DPT). These vaccines are usually given during a person's first few years of life, however it would be best to go back to your medical records to ensure that you have received these vaccinations and all are up to date.

Immunizations for Hepatitis A and B are also required of potential expatriates. Although the US is a highly developed country, you are not 100% safe from both diseases, as unsanitary food preparation does exist, and blood transfers are still dangerous. 

Getting vaccinated against varicella, or more popularly known as chickenpox, is also a requirement. Varicella is a disease that is easily transmissible, and US authorities would want to ensure that an outbreak can be avoided with the simple precautionary measure of vaccination. 

Another disease that can easily be passed on from one individual to another is influenza. An applicant for an immigrant visa is required to secure vaccination for this. With the recent H1N1 scare, one might also want to get some preventive immunization against this new strain of the flu virus, just to be on the safe side. 

Other required vaccinations are for polio, meningococcal, pneumococcal, and rotavirus.