Planning an international trip? Exciting! But between booking flights and packing your bags, there’s one thing you really shouldn’t leave until the last minute: your travel vaccines.
Whether you’re off to explore the Amazon, volunteer abroad, or finally take that dream safari, getting vaccinated ahead of time is one of the most important steps in your travel prep. It protects you from serious diseases you might not be exposed to in Canada—and some of them require more than one shot, spaced out over a few weeks.
That’s why visiting a travel clinic early is key. At Swift Travel Clinics, we help travellers across Ottawa and beyond get the right protection with personalized, safe, and convenient service. Let’s walk through everything you need to know.
Why Do You Need Travel Vaccines?
Canada is fortunate to have low levels of many infectious diseases. But when you travel abroad—especially to certain parts of Africa, Asia, or South America—you may be at risk for things like yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, rabies, and more.
Travel vaccines protect you from these region-specific threats, whether you’re backpacking in rural areas or staying in luxury resorts. It’s not just about your own health either—some countries require proof of certain vaccinations, like yellow fever, as a condition of entry.
That’s where a travel vaccine clinic comes in. Instead of guessing what you might need, you’ll get expert advice tailored to your destination, activities, and medical history.
How Far in Advance Should You Get Travel Vaccines?
In general, it’s best to book an appointment with a travel clinic 4 to 6 weeks before you leave.
Why so early?
Some vaccines require multiple doses, spaced days or even weeks apart. For example:
- Hepatitis A & B often need two or three shots over time.
- Rabies pre-exposure vaccines are given in a series of injections.
- Japanese Encephalitis (recommended for certain areas in Asia) is also a two-dose vaccine.
Even single-dose vaccines—like yellow fever or typhoid—can take 7–10 days to become fully effective. That means the earlier you get them, the more confident you can feel stepping onto that plane.
What If You’re a Last-Minute Traveller?
We get it—life happens! If you’re heading out soon and haven’t been vaccinated, don’t panic. At Swift Travel Clinics, we offer expedited services and keep all major travel vaccines in stock, including yellow fever. At our travel clinic in Ottawa, we’ll help you get the essential protection you need—fast.
Common Travel Vaccines & When to Get Them
Here’s a quick look at some of the most common vaccines and the ideal timing before travel:
| Vaccine | Recommended Time Before Travel |
| Hepatitis A & B | 4+ weeks (multiple doses) |
| Typhoid | 2–3 weeks |
| Yellow Fever | At least 10 days |
| Rabies | 1 month (3 doses) |
| Japanese Encephalitis | 4+ weeks (2 doses) |
| MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) | 4 weeks if not already immune |
Keep in mind that requirements can vary by country—and even by region within a country. A travel clinic will help you sort through the noise and focus on what you actually need for your trip.
Where to Get Travel Vaccines in Canada
Your family doctor might not stock all the travel vaccines you need, and walk-in clinics typically don’t offer tailored travel medicine advice.
That’s why going to a certified travel vaccine clinic—like ours at Swift Travel Clinics—makes all the difference. We offer:
- Same-day test results and quick appointments
- In-stock vaccines, including yellow fever
- Personalized recommendations based on your trip and medical history
- Family-friendly services with Canadian-qualified doctors and nurses
With multiple locations across Ottawa, including on Bank Street and St. Joseph Blvd. in Orléans, we make it easy and convenient to get protected before you go.
So, if you’re searching for a trusted travel clinic Ottawa locals rely on, you’re in the right place.
Finally, Don’t Wait to Protect Yourself
Travel is all about experiencing new things, trying new foods, meeting new people—and that’s a beautiful thing. But it also means stepping into environments where your immune system might face unfamiliar threats.
By planning ahead and booking your appointment at a travel vaccine clinic, you’re making sure your trip is safe, smooth, and healthy from start to finish.
At Swift Travel Clinics, we’re here to help you make it happen—with expert travel medicine care, fast appointments, and everything you need in one place.
Ready to Travel Safely?
Book your appointment with Swift Travel Clinics today. Whether you’re preparing for an international assignment, heading to a tropical vacation, or taking your kids on their first overseas trip—we’ll make sure you’re protected and ready.
Visit one of our Ottawa travel clinic locations today or give us a call to schedule your pre-travel consultation.
