When planning international travel, timing your vaccinations correctly is essential. Many travel vaccines require time to take effect, and some have entry requirements that must be met before arrival. The table below provides typical minimum lead times for common travel vaccines. These timelines are subject to change, but they were accurate at the time of posting.
This information applies to travelers in Ontario and Quebec.
| Vaccine | Minimum Lead Time Before Travel | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Fever | 10 days | Certificate becomes valid 10 days after vaccination. Required for entry in certain countries. |
| Typhoid (Injectable) | 14 days | Single dose. Recommended for many destinations in Asia, Africa, Central America and South America. |
| Vivotif (Oral Typhoid Vaccine) | 14 days | Four capsules taken over multiple days. Completed at least 14 days before travel for optimal immunity. Not suitable for all travelers. |
| Hepatitis A | 14 days | First dose provides early protection. Second dose after 6 months provides long-term immunity. |
| Twinrix (Hep A and B) | 21 days (rapid schedule) | Accelerated schedule available for last minute travelers. Standard schedule requires additional time. |
| Rabies (Pre-Exposure) | 21 days | Multi-dose series. Recommended for long-stay travel, rural areas or animal exposure risk. |
| Japanese Encephalitis | 28 days | Two-dose series. Recommended for extended or rural travel in parts of Asia. |
| Cholera | 14 days | Oral vaccine. Often recommended for outbreak regions or humanitarian deployments. |
| Polio Booster | 28 days | Required for certain destinations with ongoing polio activity. |
| Tetanus Booster | 0 to 7 days | Can be given close to travel if needed. Ideally given at least one week before departure. |
Important Considerations About Timing
A professional consultation is always required. Several factors influence timing, safety and vaccine effectiveness.
1. Some vaccines offer accelerated schedules
Vaccines such as Twinrix and Rabies can be given on rapid schedules. These must be planned properly to ensure full protection.
2. Some vaccines must be spaced apart
Certain vaccines cannot be given together, while others can be administered on the same day. Safe scheduling depends on your medical history and destination.
3. Additional vaccines may be recommended
Other vaccines, including MMR, Varicella, HPV and Pneumococcal, may be indicated depending on your age, itinerary or vaccine history. Each has its own timing requirements.
4. Country entry rules vary
Some destinations require proof of vaccination or enforce specific timing windows, especially for yellow fever and polio. Guidelines change frequently.
When to Book Your Appointment
Most travelers should book a travel health consultation 6 to 8 weeks before departure to allow time for:
- multi-dose vaccine series
- accelerated schedules when suitable
- safe spacing between vaccines
- malaria and medication planning
Summit Health can support last minute travelers, but early booking ensures the best protection.
Book Your Travel Consultation
Summit Health provides comprehensive travel health consultations at clinics across Ontario and Quebec. Our experienced team reviews your itinerary, identifies recommended vaccines and ensures you receive them with appropriate timing.
