|
|||||||||||
| |
|
Missionary Immunization Requirements Be aware that some countries require that you receive certain immunizations before entering the country. Some immunizations require multiple doses or a series of vaccinations over a course of several months to provide maximum protection. You should allow sufficient time to complete the required series
of immunizations before leaving for your mission. Chickenpox - If you have not had chickenpox disease, it is highly recommended that you get two doses of chickenpox vaccine one month apart. Hepatitis A - The hepatitis A vaccine is a two dose series separated by at least six months. A combination hepatitis A and B vaccine is now available and may be used to meet the requirements for these vaccines. Hepatitis B -Three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine are recommended. Because of the length of time that is required between vaccine doses, you should begin the series as soon as possible. Influenza - If you will be leaving during the months of November, December, January, or February, the flu vaccine is recommended. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) - Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended. If you have never had an MMR vaccine, two doses given four weeks apart are recommended. If you were born before January 1, 1957, the MMR vaccine may not be necessary. Pneumonia -The pneumonia vaccine is recommended for individuals 65 years of age or older who have not been vaccinated. Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) - If you have NOT completed the primary immunization series of Td (tetanus and diphtheria), you should complete it before leaving for your mission. A Td booster is recommended every ten years. However, missionaries may need a booster if it has been at least five years since the last dose. A single dose of adolescent/adult formulation Td that includes acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) is recommended to replace one Td booster dose for persons 10-64 years of age. Other vaccines may be recommended and are determined by destination and risk factors. For more information and specific recommendations, visit the Travelers' Health website. The only vaccine required by International Health Regulations is yellow fever vaccination for travel to certain countries in sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America. Meningococcal vaccination is required by the government of Saudi Arabia for annual travel during the Hajj. For information on the specific countries that require the yellow fever and meningococcal vaccines, visit the Traveler's Health website. Immunizations Required For All Missionaries Before Entering the Missionary Training Center (MTC) Immunizations may be obtained from your private physician or your local health department. If you have not completed the required immunizations for your mission before arriving at the MTC, you will lose time and incur additional personal expense. Exceptions to these requirements may be allowed for valid medical reasons, but may result in a change of assignment. The minimum vaccinations required for all LDS missions are listed below. Depending on your destination and/or risk factors, you will be advised if other vaccinations are required. Hepatitis A For more information, contact the Missionary Training Center at 801-378-3769. If you are going to a country considered high risk for malaria, visit the Travelers' Health website or contact your missionary representative for specific instructions. Depending on the type and incidence of malaria in the area, medication may be needed. Back to Top |
||||