Travel recommendations, especially for areas with a high prevalence of infectious diseases, should be provided by individuals who have received specialized training in travel health. Vaccinations are an important component of travel health, but they sometimes receive disproportionate emphasis compared to guidance on hygiene, dietary recommendations suitable for unfamiliar conditions, malaria prevention, general insect protection, accident prevention, and so on.
For region-specific recommendations, outbreak news, and similar information, the following resources can be consulted:
TravelHealthPro (by the UK Health Security Agency)
NaTHNaC (by the UK Health Security Agency)
Rejsevaccination (by the Danish health authorities)
Statens Serum Institut (by the Danish health authorities)
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It is important to keep in mind, when interpreting the general recommendations that follow, that travel to visit friends and relatives is inherently different from travel where one stays in tourist destinations. When staying with relatives or friends, the traveler’s environment is more similar to that of the general population in the host country, and the risk of, for example, insect-borne diseases and tuberculosis is significantly higher than if one stays exclusively in air-conditioned hotels.
It may be appropriate to perform tuberculosis testing (QuantiFERON) before and after travel when visiting friends and relatives in countries with a high tuberculosis burden, defined as an incidence of over 40 per 100,000 per year (see the incidence in each country according to the latest information from the World Health Organization).
Tuberculosis testing after travel should be delayed until 10 weeks after return, unless there is reason to perform it earlier due to information about exposure during the trip or for other clinical reasons.
Children under 5 years of age, and especially under 2 years of age, are at the highest risk of acute, severe tuberculosis. It is very important to apply preventive treatment if there is the slightest indication for children in this age group, even before tuberculosis infection is confirmed.
Tuberculosis treatment for children under 5 years of age should always be managed under the supervision of a pediatric infectious disease specialist. Children are not likely to transmit tuberculosis to others, even if they themselves have pulmonary tuberculosis, until they reach puberty.
Child vaccinations for travel
The key point regarding travel vaccination recommendations is to try to ensure that appropriate doses of vaccines included in the national program are given before travel, if possible. The diseases we primarily aim to prevent with routine vaccinations in this country are much more common worldwide and can cause more severe illness in younger children than in older ones.
In some cases, it may be advisable to add vaccinations that are not part of the routine program, give additional doses of vaccines already in the program for older children, or even recommend that families seek vaccination for their child at the destination—for example, if a vaccine is unavailable locally or if the child will stay long enough to reach the age for a vaccine that cannot be given prior to travel due to young age.
Traveling with a young child can be risky, and in some cases, it may be appropriate to advise against travel with a young child, such as if a measles outbreak is ongoing at the intended destination or if there is a risk of malaria and the child is too young for effective preventive treatment.
A child under 3 months old when the trip begins
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RSV:
RSV immunization can be given from birth during specific seasons. The antibody is not available outside that season, even if travel is planned to southern regions where RSV circulates at different times of the year than it does here.
Rotavirus vaccine:
Rotavirus vaccination can be given from 6 weeks of age. A minimum interval of 4 weeks is required between doses.
Pentavac and Vaxneuvance:
The first dose of Pentavac (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine) and Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal vaccine) can be given from 6 weeks of age. If time allows, dose #2—normally scheduled at 5 months of age—may be given after 4 weeks (from approximately 10 weeks of age). No additional doses are required even if vaccination is started early (updated recommendations 2026). If two doses cannot be administered before travel, an attempt should be made to obtain the next dose at the destination if the trip lasts longer than 4 weeks.
Hepatitis B:
May be administered from birth; see the package insert. Recommended for longer trips (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family's expense unless a household member is infected with hepatitis B.
Japanese encephalitis (JE):
May be administered from 2 months of age; see the package insert. Recommended for stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if JE vaccination is part of the routine immunization program where the child will be staying. If the child is too young, the vaccine is unavailable, or the cost is too high, vaccination may be sought at the destination. However, there is some risk of serious adverse effects with vaccines marketed in regions where JE risk is high. Booster vaccination may be required according to the package insert if the family plans repeated travel to JE-risk areas. Good mosquito protection, day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis:
May be administered from 2 months of age. Meningococcal vaccines ACWY and/or B may be used. The ACWY vaccine is part of the routine program here but cannot be administered until 12 months of age. If vaccination is indicated before travel in a young child (e.g., travel during the dry season to Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, approximately December–April), Nimenrix should be used according to the package insert and at the family’s expense. Bexsero, a vaccine against meningococcal B, is often available and should be used if the child will stay in an area with an ongoing outbreak or at parental request.
Rabies:
There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if there is an indication for it. Children who cannot move independently are less likely to be exposed to rabies than those who can move around on their own. However, conditions at the destination may warrant vaccination even in very young children, particularly if there is a risk that the child could come into contact with bats without sleeping travel companions noticing. Post-exposure treatment in unvaccinated individuals requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies antiserum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in areas where rabies is common among wild mammals.
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Hepatitis A: Cannot be used, but the risk of severe illness in very young children is also low. There is a high risk of transmission to others if the child becomes infected, so it is important that adults caring for a child with hepatitis A are vaccinated.
Measles: Young children are at high risk of severe illness if they contract measles, but it is not safe to vaccinate children under 6 months of age. Children of this age who are exposed to measles may require passive immunization with antibodies derived from human blood, in consultation with a physician.
Typhoid fever: Typhoid vaccines that can be used for infants are not available in Europe. Young children are at life-threatening risk from typhoid; antibiotics are required to treat typhoid if infection occurs. If traveling to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), it may be appropriate to inquire about vaccinations available there for long stays in the region.
Tick-borne encephalitis: The vaccine available here cannot be used for children under 12 months of age. If traveling to areas where younger children receive this vaccine as part of the routine schedule, it is appropriate to seek local advice regarding vaccination. Children who do not move independently are relatively less likely to come into contact with ticks than children who crawl or walk in grass, but good insect repellents, reapplied approximately every 2 hours, reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Yellow fever: Children under 6 months of age must not be vaccinated, nor mothers breastfeeding infants under 6 months of age. Vaccination is not recommended until the child has reached 9 months of age. It is not advisable to travel with such young children to areas where a yellow fever outbreak is ongoing. Good mosquito protection, day and night, reduces the risk of yellow fever infection.
Dengue: The vaccine available in Europe may only be used in connection with travel if the child has previously had dengue and is at least 4 years old. Dengue is a life-threatening disease for infants; the only possible prevention is good mosquito protection, day and night.
Tuberculosis: Can be vaccinated from birth, but tuberculosis vaccination is not available here. It may be appropriate to explore vaccination options at the destination if tuberculosis has occurred among relatives or in the case of long stays, if infant vaccination is part of the routine schedule in that country.
Cholera: Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. It is not advisable to travel with such young children to areas where a cholera outbreak is ongoing.
Ebola: A vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. It is not advisable to travel with children to areas where an outbreak is ongoing.
MPOX: The vaccine is not used in connection with travel here, only for children in relation to exposure. It is not advisable to travel with children to areas where an outbreak is ongoing.
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Sunburn can be very serious in young children and may lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and other complications. Sun protection of all types should be used at all times while outdoors: hats, visors/umbrellas, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
High risk of serious illness from various insect-borne diseases exists. It is important to use nets while the child is sleeping, both day and night, and to use insect repellent regularly. Repellent is not recommended to be applied directly on the skin of children under 2 months of age, but follow the instructions on the product. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria is one of the most dangerous insect-borne diseases. Preventive treatments are recommended for travelers, but it is not practical to give such a young child daily prophylaxis in tablet form, and there are no vaccines available for travelers. It is not advisable to travel with infants this young to malaria-endemic areas, even if nets and insect repellents are used.
Infants under 3 months of age should be given milk or electrolyte solutions suitable for their age, with very limited plain water. Travel in hot climates poses a high risk of dehydration. There is also a risk that maternal milk production may decrease if the mother cannot keep up with increased fluid loss in hot climates. It is advisable to have Resorb or a similar electrolyte powder intended for infants while traveling, mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. Anticipate that maternal milk supply may be disrupted if the mother falls ill during travel, and bring powdered infant formula appropriate for the child’s age. All water used for infants while traveling in areas with uncertain water quality should be boiled, as local warnings may not reliably protect travelers as they do residents.
High risk of diarrheal diseases exists during travel, which can be either infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea, hot climate, and unreliable maternal milk production if the mother becomes ill can place the infant at serious risk. See also the guidance above regarding hydration and electrolytes.
Various epidemic diseases not discussed here can occur, and many of them can have severe effects on very young children. Illness in an infant while traveling should always be taken seriously, especially if the mother is also ill, as she may then be less able to provide protective antibodies (from pregnancy or breastfeeding) to the child.
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Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: Transmission from a young child is extremely unlikely or negligible, but infection in a very young child can be life-threatening.
Child aged 3–6 months when the trip begins
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RSV:
RSV immunization can be given from birth during specific seasons. The antibody is not available outside that season, even if travel is planned to southern regions where RSV circulates at different times of the year than it does here.
Rotavirus vaccine:
Rotavirus vaccination can be given from 6 weeks of age. A minimum interval of 4 weeks is required between doses, and the series can be completed by 14 weeks of age if necessary.
Primary vaccination with Pentavac and Vaxneuvance:
Primary vaccination with Pentavac (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine) and Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal vaccine) can be started from 6 weeks of age. If time allows, the primary series should be completed before travel (normally scheduled at 5 months of age) with the second dose given after 4 weeks (from approximately 10 weeks of age). No additional doses are required even if vaccination is started early (updated recommendation 2026). If two doses cannot be administered before travel, an attempt should be made to obtain the next dose at the destination if the trip lasts longer than 4 weeks.
Hepatitis B:
May be administered from birth; see the package insert. Recommended for longer trips (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless a household member is infected with hepatitis B.
Japanese encephalitis (JE):
May be administered from 2 months of age; see the package insert. It should be given for stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if JE vaccination is part of the routine immunization program where the child will be staying. If the child is too young, the vaccine is unavailable, or the cost is too high, it may be possible to arrange vaccination at the destination. However, there is a certain risk of serious adverse effects with vaccines marketed in regions where the risk of JE is high. Booster vaccination may be required according to the package insert if the family plans repeated travel to JE-risk areas. Good mosquito protection, both day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis:
Vaccination may be given from 2 months of age. Meningococcal vaccines ACWY and/or B may be used. The ACWY vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule here but cannot be administered until 12 months of age. If vaccination is indicated before travel in a young child (for example travel during the dry season to Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, approximately December to April), Nimenrix should be used according to the package insert and at the family’s expense. Bexsero, a vaccine against meningococcal B, is often available and should be used if the child will stay in an area with an ongoing outbreak or at parental request.
Rabies:
There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if there is an indication for it. Children who cannot move independently are less likely to be exposed to rabies than those who can move around on their own. However, conditions at the destination may warrant vaccination even in very young children, particularly if there is a risk that the child could come into contact with bats without sleeping travel companions noticing. Post-exposure treatment in individuals who were not vaccinated before exposure requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies antiserum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in areas where rabies is common among wild mammals.
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Hepatitis A: Not not recommended. Risk of severe illness in very young infants is low, but high risk of transmission to others if the child becomes infected. Adults caring for the child should be vaccinated.
Measles: Not safe to vaccinate children under 6 months. Young infants are at high risk of severe illness if infected. Infants exposed may require passive immunization with human-derived antibodies, in consultation with a physician.
Typhoid fever: Vaccines suitable for infants are not available in Europe. Young infants are at life-threatening risk if infected, and antibiotics are required for treatment. For travel to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), local vaccination options may be considered for longer stays.
Tick-borne encephalitis: Vaccine available here cannot be used for children under 12 months. If traveling to areas where infants receive routine vaccination, local guidance should be sought. Infants who cannot move independently are less likely to encounter ticks, but repellents reapplied every 2 hours reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Yellow fever: Must not be given to children under 6 months or to breastfeeding mothers of infants under 6 months. Vaccination is not recommended until 9 months of age. Travel with such young infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
Dengue: Vaccine available in Europe may only be used if the child has previously had dengue and is at least 4 years old. Dengue is life-threatening in infants; only prevention is good mosquito protection day and night.
Tuberculosis: Can be given from birth, but vaccination is not available here. Consider vaccination at the destination if TB cases occur among relatives or for long stays where infant vaccination is routine.
Cholera: Not recommended for children under 2 years. Travel with very young infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
Ebola: Vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. Travel with infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
Mpox: Vaccine is not used for travel here; only for children with known exposure. Travel with infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
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Sunburn can become very serious in young children and can lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and more. All types of sun protection should be used at all times while the sun is out: hat, visor/umbrella, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
There is a high risk of serious illness associated with various insect-borne diseases; it is important to use a net when the child sleeps, both day and night, and insect repellents should be used regularly. Insect repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria is one of the most dangerous insect-borne diseases. Preventive treatments recommended for travelers exist, but it is not practical to give such a young child daily prophylaxis in tablet form, and there are no vaccines intended for travelers. It is not advisable to travel with such young children to malaria areas, even when nets and insect repellents are used.
A child under 6 months of age should drink milk or an electrolyte solution intended for their age, with very limited plain water. There is a high risk during travel if the child becomes dehydrated in a hot climate; there is also a risk that maternal milk production may decrease if the mother cannot keep up with increased fluid loss in hot climates with increased intake. It is advisable to have Resorb or a similar electrolyte powder intended for infants when traveling, which should be mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. One should anticipate that the mother’s milk supply may be disrupted if she becomes ill during travel, and bring infant formula appropriate for the child’s age. All water used for an infant during travel must be boiled, as warnings about water quality do not reach travelers as reliably as they do the local population.
There is a high risk of diarrheal illnesses during travel, which can be either infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea, hot climate, and unreliable maternal milk production if the mother becomes ill can put the child at great risk. See also above.
It is very important that the child only receives well-cooked food if starting solid foods. Unpasteurized fruit juice should not be given to young children while traveling, and fruits must be washed carefully and peeled before being given to the infant.
Various diseases can occur in outbreaks that are not discussed here, and many of them can have serious effects on very young children. Illness in a young child during travel should always be taken seriously, especially if the mother is also ill, as she may then be less likely to have provided protective antibodies to the child during pregnancy.
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Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: Transmission from a young child is extremely unlikely or negligible, but infection in a very young child can be life-threatening.
Child aged 6–9 months when the trip begins
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Rotavirus vaccine:
Rotavirus vaccination should be completed before travel.
Primary vaccination with Pentavac and Vaxneuvance:
Primary vaccination with Pentavac (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine) and Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal vaccine) should be completed before travel (a booster dose is given at 12 months of age in Iceland).
Measles:
The MMR vaccine may be given from 6 months of age if indicated, but the indication must be documented in the child’s medical record at this age. Children should still receive the routine vaccination at 18 months of age regardless of MMR vaccination given before 12 months of age.
Hepatitis B:
May be administered from birth; see the package insert. Recommended for longer trips (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless a household member is infected with hepatitis B.
Yellow fever:
Travel with such young children to areas where yellow fever outbreaks are occurring is not recommended. In emergencies, vaccination may be given to children from 6 months of age, but it is preferable to postpone travel until the child reaches 9 months of age and is eligible for vaccination. If vaccination is given before 9 months of age, the indication must be documented in the child’s medical record.
Japanese encephalitis (JE):
May be administered from 2 months of age; see the package insert. It should be given for stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if JE vaccination is part of the routine immunization program where the child will be staying. If the child is too young, the vaccine is unavailable, or the cost is too high, it may be possible to arrange vaccination at the destination. However, there is some risk of serious adverse effects with vaccines marketed in regions where the risk of JE is high. Booster vaccination may be required according to the package insert if the family plans repeated travel to JE-risk areas. Good mosquito protection, both day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis:
Vaccination may be given from 2 months of age.
Meningococcal vaccines ACWY and/or B may be used. The ACWY vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule here but cannot be administered until 12 months of age. If vaccination is indicated before travel in a young child (for example travel during the dry season to Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, approximately December–April), Nimenrix should be used according to the package insert and at the family’s expense. Bexsero, a vaccine against meningococcal B, is often available and should be used if the child will stay in an area with an ongoing outbreak or at parental request.
Rabies:
There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if there is an indication for it. Children who cannot move independently are less likely to be exposed to rabies than those who can move around on their own. However, conditions at the destination may warrant vaccination even in very young children, particularly if there is a risk that the child could come into contact with bats without sleeping travel companions noticing. Post-exposure treatment in individuals who were not vaccinated before exposure requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies antiserum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in areas where rabies is common among wild mammals.
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Hepatitis A: Should not be used, and the risk of severe illness in very young children is also low. There is a high risk of transmission to others if the child becomes infected, so it is important that adults caring for a child with hepatitis A are vaccinated.
Typhoid fever: Vaccines for infants are not available in Europe. Young children are at life-threatening risk from typhoid fever, which requires antibiotics for treatment if infection occurs. For travel to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), it may be appropriate to learn about vaccination options available locally for longer stays.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis: Vaccines available here cannot be used for children under 12 months. If traveling to an area where younger children receive vaccination in the local schedule, it is advisable to obtain guidance there about vaccination. Children who cannot move independently are relatively unlikely to come into contact with ticks, unlike children who crawl or walk on grass, but good insect repellents, reapplied approximately every 2 hours, reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Dengue: The vaccine available in Europe may only be used in connection with travel if the child has previously had dengue and is at least 4 years old. Dengue is life-threatening for infants; the only possible prevention is good mosquito protection, day and night.
Tuberculosis: Can be given from birth, but vaccination is not available here. It may be appropriate to investigate vaccination options at the destination if TB cases have occurred among relatives or for long stays where infant vaccination is included in the country’s routine schedule.
Cholera: Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. Travel with very young children to cholera outbreak areas is not advised.
Ebola: Vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. Travel with infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
Mpox: Vaccine is not used in connection with travel here, only for children with known exposure. Travel with infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
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Sunburn can become very serious in young children and can lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and more. All types of sun protection should be used at all times while the sun is out: hat, visor/umbrella, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
There is a high risk of serious illness associated with various insect-borne diseases; it is important to use a bed net when the child sleeps, both day and night, and insect repellents should be used regularly. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria is one of the most dangerous insect-borne diseases. Preventive treatments recommended for travelers exist, but it is not practical to give such a young child daily prophylaxis in tablet form, and there are no vaccines intended for travelers. Travel with very young children to malaria areas is not recommended, even when using nets and repellents.
Children under 9 months of age should drink milk or an electrolyte solution intended for their age. Children who are eating solid foods may drink plain water, but in hot weather it may be preferable for fluid intake to contain electrolytes. There is a high risk of dehydration during travel in hot climates. Maternal milk production may decrease if the mother cannot keep up with increased fluid loss in hot weather. It is advisable to have Resorb or a similar electrolyte powder intended for infants while traveling, mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. Prepare for possible disruption of maternal milk supply due to maternal illness, and bring age-appropriate infant formula. All water used for the infant while traveling should be boiled, as local water quality warnings may not reliably protect travelers.
There is a high risk of diarrheal illnesses during travel, which may be infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea and hot climate can put the child at serious risk. See also above.
It is very important that the child only receives well-cooked food if starting solid foods. Unpasteurized fruit juice should not be given to young children while traveling, and fruits must be washed carefully and peeled before being given to the infant.
Various diseases can occur in outbreaks not discussed here, many of which can have serious effects on very young children. Illness in a young child during travel should always be taken seriously, especially if the mother is also ill, as she may then be less likely to have provided protective antibodies to the child during pregnancy.
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Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: Transmission from a young child is extremely unlikely or negligible, but infection in a very young child can be life-threatening.
Children 9–12 months at the start of travel
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Rotavirus vaccine:
Rotavirus vaccination should be completed before travel.
Primary vaccination with Pentavac and Vaxneuvance:
Primary vaccination with Pentavac (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine) and Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal vaccine) should be completed before travel (a booster dose is given at 12 months of age in Iceland).
Measles:
The MMR vaccine should be administered before travel. Children should still receive the routine vaccination at 18 months of age regardless of MMR vaccination given before 12 months of age.
The use of MMR+VZV or MMRV (against measles and varicella in addition to mumps and rubella) may be considered if the child has reached 10 months of age and the family requests it. The MMR vaccination must be repeated at 18 months of age, but the VZV component counts as a valid first dose, and the second dose may be given according to the routine schedule.
Hepatitis B:
May be administered from birth; see the package insert. Recommended for longer trips (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless a household member is infected with hepatitis B.
Yellow fever:
Travel with such young children to areas where yellow fever outbreaks are occurring is not recommended. Vaccination may be given from 9 months of age and is currently considered valid as a single lifetime dose. However, the World Health Organization is reviewing whether repeat vaccination may be indicated when the first dose is given at a very young age.
Japanese encephalitis (JE):
May be administered from 2 months of age; see the package insert. It should be given for stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if JE vaccination is part of the routine immunization program where the child will be staying. If the child is too young, the vaccine is unavailable, or the cost is too high, vaccination may be sought at the destination. However, there is some risk of serious adverse effects with vaccines marketed in regions where the risk of JE is high. Booster vaccination may be required according to the package insert if the family plans repeated travel to JE-risk areas. Good mosquito protection, both day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis:
Vaccination may be given from 2 months of age.
Meningococcal vaccines ACWY and/or B may be used. The ACWY vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule here but cannot be administered until 12 months of age. If vaccination is indicated before travel in a young child (for example travel during the dry season to Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, approximately December–April), Nimenrix should be used according to the package insert and at the family’s expense. Bexsero, a vaccine against meningococcal B, is often available and should be used if the child will stay in an area with an ongoing outbreak or at parental request.
Rabies:
There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if there is an indication for it. Children who cannot move independently are less likely to be exposed to rabies than those who can move around on their own. However, conditions at the destination may warrant vaccination even in very young children, particularly if there is a risk that the child could come into contact with bats without sleeping travel companions noticing. Post-exposure treatment in individuals who were not vaccinated before exposure requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies antiserum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in areas where rabies is common among wild mammals.
- Automatic translation
Hepatitis A: Should not be used, and the risk of severe illness in very young children is also low. There is a high risk of transmission to others if the child becomes infected, so it is important that adults caring for a child with hepatitis A are vaccinated.
Typhoid fever: Vaccines for infants are not available in Europe. Young children are at life-threatening risk from typhoid fever, which requires antibiotics for treatment if infection occurs. For travel to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), it may be appropriate to learn about vaccination options available locally for longer stays.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis: Vaccines available here cannot be used for children under 12 months. If traveling to an area where younger children receive vaccination in the local schedule, it is advisable to obtain guidance there about vaccination. Children who cannot move independently are relatively unlikely to come into contact with ticks, unlike children who crawl or walk on grass, but good insect repellents, reapplied approximately every 2 hours, reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Dengue: The vaccine available in Europe may only be used in connection with travel if the child has previously had dengue and is at least 4 years old. Dengue is life-threatening for infants; the only possible prevention is good mosquito protection, day and night.
Tuberculosis: Can be given from birth, but vaccination is not available here. It may be appropriate to investigate vaccination options at the destination if TB cases have occurred among relatives or for long stays where infant vaccination is included in the country’s routine schedule.
Cholera: Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. Travel with very young children to cholera outbreak areas is not advised.
Ebola: Vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. Travel with infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
Mpox: Vaccine is not used in connection with travel here, only for children with known exposure. Travel with infants to outbreak areas is not advised.
- Automatic translation
Sunburn can become very serious in young children and can lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and more. All types of sun protection should be used at all times while the sun is out: hat, visor/umbrella, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
There is a high risk of serious illness associated with various insect-borne diseases; it is important to use a bed net when the child sleeps, both day and night, and insect repellents should be used regularly. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria is one of the most dangerous insect-borne diseases. Preventive treatments recommended for travelers exist, but it is not practical to give such a young child daily prophylaxis in tablet form, and there are no vaccines intended for travelers. Travel with very young children to malaria areas is not recommended, even when using nets and repellents.
Children under 9 months of age should drink milk or an electrolyte solution intended for their age. Children who are eating solid foods may drink plain water, but in hot weather it may be preferable for fluid intake to contain electrolytes. There is a high risk of dehydration during travel in hot climates. Maternal milk production may decrease if the mother cannot keep up with increased fluid loss in hot weather. It is advisable to have Resorb or a similar electrolyte powder intended for infants while traveling, mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. Prepare for possible disruption of maternal milk supply due to maternal illness, and bring age-appropriate infant formula. All water used for the infant while traveling should be boiled, as local water quality warnings may not reliably protect travelers.
There is a high risk of diarrheal illnesses during travel, which may be infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea and hot climate can put the child at serious risk. See also above.
It is very important that the child only receives well-cooked food if starting solid foods. Unpasteurized fruit juice should not be given to young children while traveling, and fruits must be washed carefully and peeled before being given to the infant.
Various diseases can occur in outbreaks not discussed here, many of which can have serious effects on very young children. Illness in a young child during travel should always be taken seriously, especially if the mother is also ill, as she may then be less likely to have provided protective antibodies to the child during pregnancy.
- Automatic translation
Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: Transmission from a young child is extremely unlikely or negligible, but infection in a very young child can be life-threatening.
Children aged 12–23 months when travel begins
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Primary vaccination with Pentavac and Vaxneuvance:
Primary vaccination with Pentavac (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B vaccine) and Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal vaccine) should be completed before travel. If 6 months have passed since the second primary dose, it is preferable to administer the booster dose before travel.
Measles:
The MMR vaccine should be administered before travel. If the child has reached 12 months of age, the MMR vaccination does not need to be repeated at the routine 18-month visit.
The use of MMR+VZV or MMRV (against measles and varicella in addition to mumps and rubella) may be considered instead of MMR alone.
Hepatitis B:
May be administered from birth; see the package insert. Recommended for longer trips (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless a household member is infected with hepatitis B.
Yellow fever:
Travel with young children to areas where yellow fever outbreaks are occurring is not recommended. Vaccination may be given from 9 months of age and is currently considered valid as a single lifetime dose. However, the World Health Organization is reviewing whether repeat vaccination may be indicated when the first dose is given at a very young age.
Japanese encephalitis (JE):
May be administered from 2 months of age; see the package insert. It should be given for stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if JE vaccination is part of the routine immunization program where the child will be staying. If the child is too young, the vaccine is unavailable, or the cost is too high, vaccination may be sought at the destination. However, there is some risk of serious adverse effects with vaccines marketed in regions where the risk of JE is high. Booster vaccination may be required according to the package insert if the family plans repeated travel to JE-risk areas. Good mosquito protection, both day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis:
Vaccination may be given from 2 months of age.
Meningococcal vaccines ACWY and/or B may be used. The ACWY vaccine is part of the routine immunization schedule here and may be administered from 12 months of age. If more than 12 months have passed since that dose and vaccination against meningococcal A is indicated before travel (e.g., travel during the dry season to Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, approximately December–April), the vaccination should be repeated at the family’s expense. Bexsero, a vaccine against meningococcal B, is often available and should be used if the child will stay in an area with an ongoing outbreak or at parental request.
Rabies:
There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if there is an indication for it. Children who are mobile and interested in animals but may not necessarily be able to report bites or exposures may warrant vaccination even if it is not considered necessary for older children or adult travel companions. Post-exposure treatment in individuals who were not vaccinated before exposure requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies antiserum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in areas where rabies is common among wild mammals.
Hepatitis A:
May be administered from 12 months of age, either as a monovalent vaccine or in combination with hepatitis B.
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE):
The vaccine available here may be used in children from 12 months of age. If traveling to an area where children routinely receive this vaccine, it is advisable for the child to be vaccinated before travel if possible, even if it is not possible to complete the full recommended series before departure. The use of effective insect repellents, reapplied approximately every 2 hours, reduces the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
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Typhoid fever: Vaccines against typhoid fever that can be used for infants are not available in Europe. Young children are at life-threatening risk from typhoid fever, and antibiotics are required to treat typhoid fever if infection occurs. If traveling to South Asia (primarily Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), it may be appropriate to check which vaccines are available locally if a prolonged stay is planned.
Dengue: The vaccine available in Europe may only be used in connection with travel if the child has previously had dengue and is at least 4 years old. Dengue is a life-threatening disease for infants; the only possible prevention is good mosquito protection, day and night.
Tuberculosis: Can be given from birth, but vaccination against tuberculosis is not available in Iceland. It may be relevant to explore vaccination options at the destination if tuberculosis has occurred among relatives or for long stays where infant vaccination is part of the local schedule.
Cholera: Not recommended for children under 2 years of age. It is not advisable to travel with very young children to areas where a cholera outbreak is ongoing.
Ebola: The vaccine is licensed but not available in Europe. It is not advisable to travel with children to areas where an outbreak is ongoing.
Mpox: The vaccine is not used in connection with travel in Iceland, only for children with known exposure. It is not advisable to travel with children to areas where an outbreak is ongoing.
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Sunburn can be very serious in young children and may lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and more. Sunscreens of all kinds should be used at all times while in the sun: a hat, shade/umbrella, lightweight long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
There is a significant risk of severe illness from various insect-borne diseases. It is important to use a mosquito net when the child is sleeping, whether day or night, and insect repellent should be applied regularly. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria is one of the most dangerous insect-borne diseases. Preventive treatments recommended for travelers exist, but it can be difficult to give such a young child daily prophylaxis in tablet form (Malarone Jr.), and there are no vaccines intended for travelers. It is not advisable to travel with very young children to malaria-endemic areas, even if nets and repellents are used.
Children traveling should drink milk, boiled water, or an age-appropriate electrolyte solution. Children who eat solid foods can drink plain water, but in hot climates it may be preferable for fluid intake to contain minerals. There is a significant risk of dehydration while traveling in hot climates. It is recommended to bring Resorb or a similar electrolyte powder intended for infants, which should be mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. All water used for children under 24 months of age while traveling should be boiled, as local water quality warnings may not reliably protect travelers.
There is a significant risk of diarrheal diseases during travel, which can be either contagious or non-contagious. Diarrhea and hot weather can put a child at great risk. See also above.
It is very important that children only eat well-cooked food. Young children should not be given unpasteurized fruit juice while traveling, and fruits should be carefully washed and peeled before being given to the child.
Various diseases can occur in outbreaks that are not covered here, and many of these can have serious effects on young children. Illness in a young child while traveling should always be taken seriously.
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Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: Transmission from a young child is extremely unlikely or negligible, but infection in a very young child can be life-threatening.
Children aged 2–3.5 years at the start of travel
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Booster vaccination with Pentavac (vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B) and Vaxneuvance (pneumococcal vaccine) should be completed before travel.
Measles: The 18-month vaccination should be completed before travel.
Hepatitis B: May be given from birth; see the package leaflet. Recommended for longer travel (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless someone in the household is infected with hepatitis B.
Yellow fever: May be given if required or if traveling to risk areas in South America or Africa. It is not recommended to travel with young children to areas where a yellow fever outbreak is ongoing.
Japanese encephalitis (JE): May be given; see the package leaflet. Should be given before stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if the vaccine is included in the national vaccination program, where the stay will take place. If the vaccine is unavailable or too costly, it may be possible to obtain vaccination at the destination; however, there is some risk of serious side effects from vaccines available in areas with high JE risk. A booster may be required according to the package leaflet if the family plans repeated travel to JE risk areas. Good mosquito protection, day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis: May be given.
Meningococcal ACWY and/or B: The ACWY vaccine is included in the program here and may be given from 12 months of age. If more than 12 months have passed since that dose and there is reason to vaccinate against meningococcal A for travel with a young child (e.g., travel during the dry season to the Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, ~December to April), revaccination is required at the family’s expense. The Bexsero vaccine against meningococcal B is often available and should be used if staying in an area with an ongoing outbreak or at the parents’ request.
Rabies: There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if indicated. Children who move independently and are interested in animals but may not be able to communicate if bitten may benefit from vaccination, even if it is not considered necessary for older children or adult travel companions. Post-exposure treatment, if vaccination was not given beforehand, requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies serum, derived from human or animal blood, which is often difficult to obtain, even in areas with high rabies prevalence among wild mammals.
Hepatitis A: May be given from 12 months of age, either alone or combined with hepatitis B.
Typhoid fever: May be given from 24 months of age, although there is still some infection risk. Antibiotics are required to treat typhoid fever if infection occurs. Recommended for all travel to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), mainly for longer trips (2+ weeks) to areas south of Texas in the Americas, Africa, or Asia.
Tick-borne encephalitis: The vaccine available here may be used for children from 12 months of age. If traveling to an area where children receive the vaccine in the national program, it is appropriate for the child to be vaccinated before travel if possible, even if not all recommended doses for travel are completed. Good insect repellents, reapplied approximately every 2 hours, reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Cholera: May be given if there is a potential risk of infection at the destination, but it is not recommended to travel with young children to areas where a cholera outbreak is ongoing.
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Dengue: The vaccine available in Europe may only be used for travel if the child has previously had dengue and is at least 4 years old. Dengue is a life-threatening disease for infants; the only possible prevention is good mosquito protection, both day and night.
Tuberculosis (TB): Can be given from birth, but vaccination against TB is not available in this country. It may be relevant to explore vaccination options at the destination if TB has occurred among relatives or for long-term stays where infant vaccination is included in the routine schedule of the country.
Ebola: The vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. Traveling with children to areas with ongoing outbreaks is not recommended.
Mpox: The vaccine is not used in connection with travel in this country, only for children after exposure. Traveling with children to areas with ongoing outbreaks is not recommended.
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Sunburn: Sunburn can be very serious in young children and may lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and other complications. Sun protection of all kinds should be used whenever the sun is out: hats, shade/parasols, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
Insect-borne diseases: There is a high risk of serious illness from various insect-borne diseases. It is important to use mosquito nets whenever the child sleeps, both day and night, and to apply insect repellent regularly. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria: Malaria is one of the most dangerous insect-borne diseases. Preventive treatments are recommended for travelers, but giving daily prophylaxis in tablet form (e.g., Malarone Jr.) can be difficult for very young children, and there are no vaccines available for travelers. Traveling with very young children to malaria-endemic areas is not recommended, even when using nets and repellent.
Hydration: Children on travel should drink milk, boiled water, or age-appropriate rehydration/mineral solutions. Children eating solid food can drink water without added minerals, but in hot climates it is generally better for fluids to contain minerals. Dehydration poses a serious risk during travel. It is advisable to carry Resorb or a similar mineral powder for infants, which should be mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. All water given to children under 24 months should be boiled when traveling in areas with uncertain water quality.
Diarrheal illness: There is a high risk of diarrhea during travel, which can be infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea combined with hot weather can put a child at serious risk. See also the points above.
Food safety: It is very important that children only eat well-cooked food. Unpasteurized fruit juice should not be given to young children during travel. Fruits must be thoroughly washed and peeled before being given to children.
Other infectious diseases: Various diseases not covered here may occur in outbreaks, and many can have serious effects on young children. Illness in a young child while traveling should always be taken seriously.
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Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: Transmission from a young child is extremely unlikely or negligible, but infection in a very young child can be life-threatening.
Child aged 3.5–10 years at the start of travel
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Booster vaccination with Pentavac (vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B) and Vaxneuvance (vaccine against pneumococcal bacteria) should be completed before travel.
Measles: The 18-month vaccination should be completed before travel.
Hepatitis B: May be given from birth; see the package leaflet. Recommended for longer travel (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless someone in the household is infected with hepatitis B.
Yellow fever: May be given if required or if traveling through risk areas in South America or Africa. It is not recommended to travel with young children to areas where a yellow fever outbreak is ongoing.
Japanese encephalitis (JE): May be given; see the package leaflet. It should be given before stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if the vaccine is included in the national vaccination program, where the stay will take place. If the vaccine is unavailable or too expensive, it may be possible to obtain vaccination at the destination; however, there is some risk of serious side effects from vaccines available in areas where JE risk is high. A booster dose may be required according to the package leaflet if the family plans repeated travel to JE risk areas. Good mosquito protection, day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis: May be given.
Meningococcal ACWY and/or B. The ACWY vaccine is included in the program here and may be given from 12 months of age. If more than 12 months have passed since that dose and there is reason to vaccinate against meningococcal A before travel with a young child (e.g., travel during the dry season to Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, ~December to April), the vaccination needs to be repeated at the family’s expense. The Bexsero vaccine against meningococcal B is often available and should be used if staying in an area where an outbreak is ongoing or at the parents’ request.
Rabies: There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if indicated. Children who move around independently and are interested in animals but may not be able to report a bite may benefit from vaccination, even if it is not considered necessary for older children or adult travel companions. Post-exposure treatment, if vaccination was not given beforehand, requires rabies immunoglobulin or rabies serum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in places where rabies in wild mammals is common.
Hepatitis A: May be given from 12 months of age, either alone or combined with hepatitis B.
Typhoid fever: May be given from 24 months of age, although there is still some infection risk. Antibiotics are required to treat typhoid fever if infection occurs. Recommended for all travel to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), but mainly for longer trips (2+ weeks) to areas south of Texas in the Americas, Africa, or Asia.
Tick-borne encephalitis: The vaccine available here may be used for children from 12 months of age. If traveling to an area where children receive the vaccine in the national program, it is appropriate for the child to receive the vaccine before travel if possible, even if all recommended doses cannot be completed beforehand. Good insect repellent, reapplied about every 2 hours, reduces the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Cholera: May be given if there is a possible risk of infection at the destination, but it is not recommended to travel with such young children to areas where a cholera outbreak is ongoing.
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Tuberculosis (TB): Can be given from birth, but vaccination against TB is not available in this country. Children who have reached 5 years of age gain limited benefit from vaccination, as the risk of rapid disease progression is only slightly higher than in older individuals.
Ebola: The vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. Traveling with children to areas with ongoing outbreaks is not recommended.
Mpox: The vaccine is not used in connection with travel in this country, only for children after exposure.
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Sunburn: Sunburn can be very serious and may lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and other complications. Sun protection of all kinds should be used whenever the sun is out: hats, shade/parasols, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
Mosquito-borne diseases: There is a risk of serious illness from various mosquito-borne diseases. It is important to use mosquito nets whenever the child sleeps, both day and night, and to apply mosquito repellent regularly. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria: Children aged 10 years and older who have not grown up in malaria-endemic areas or have lived outside such areas for two years or more are at risk of severe malaria and should take Malarone or doxycycline prophylaxis when traveling in malaria-endemic regions. Note that doxycycline increases the risk of severe sun damage to the skin.
Hydration: Children on travel should drink sufficient fluids, including boiled water, pasteurized milk, well-boiled tea, mineral solutions, or (possibly pasteurized) fruit juice. Children unaccustomed to heat may lose their appetite for fluids and can dehydrate easily in hot climates. It is advisable to carry Resorb or a similar mineral powder intended for children while traveling, which should be mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. Travelers can become ill from water that is not considered safe to drink; chlorine tablets, carbon filters, UV/sunlight, or boiling make unsafe water less risky. Pay special attention to water from showers and taps, which may be unsafe; the child’s mouth should remain closed while bathing. Ice in drinks should be avoided if tap water is unsafe, and in some areas, boiled/filtered/UV-treated water may be necessary even for tooth brushing.
Diarrheal illness: There is a high risk of diarrhea during travel, which can be infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea combined with hot weather can put a child at serious risk. See also the points above.
Food safety: It is very important that children only eat well-cooked food. Fruits must be thoroughly washed and peeled before being given to children, and vegetables should preferably be cooked. Salads are not recommended where drinking water is unsafe.
Other infectious diseases: Various diseases not covered here may occur in outbreaks, many of which can have serious effects. Illness in a child while traveling should always be taken seriously.
- Automatic translation
Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: The risk of infection from children before puberty is extremely low or nonexistent. Children of primary school age are generally not in immediate life-threatening danger if they become infected with tuberculosis, but the risk of developing active tuberculosis in a child who has been infected increases somewhat at puberty.
Child aged 10–14 years at the start of travel
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Booster vaccination with Boostrix (the 4-year vaccination) should be completed before travel. If traveling to an area where polio has been detected within the past 12 months, Repevax (or a monovalent polio vaccine if available, then at the family’s expense) should be given before travel.
Measles: The 18-month vaccination should be completed before travel, and the second dose should be considered before travel to areas where measles is common if it has not already been given.
Hepatitis A: Should be given, either alone or combined with hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B: May be given from birth; see the package leaflet. Recommended for longer travel (30+ days) or if infection is known among close relatives. Vaccination is at the family’s expense unless someone in the household is infected with hepatitis B.
Yellow fever: May be given if required or if traveling through risk areas in South America or Africa. It is not recommended to travel with children to areas where a yellow fever outbreak is ongoing.
Japanese encephalitis (JE): May be given; see the package leaflet. It should be given before stays longer than 30 days during the rainy season in risk areas. One way to identify true risk areas is if the vaccine is included in the national vaccination program, where the stay will take place. If the vaccine is unavailable or too expensive, it may be possible to obtain vaccination at the destination; however, there is a risk of serious adverse effects from vaccines available in areas with high JE risk. A booster dose may be required according to the package leaflet if the family plans repeated travel to JE risk areas. Good mosquito protection, day and night, reduces the risk of JE infection.
Meningitis: May be given.
Meningococcal ACWY and/or B: The ACWY vaccine is included in the vaccination program here and may be given from 12 months of age. If more than 12 months have passed since that dose and there is reason to vaccinate against meningococcal A before travel with a young child (e.g., travel during the dry season to the Sahel regions of West and Central Africa, ~December to April), the vaccination needs to be repeated at the family’s expense. If more than 5 years have passed since the previous dose and there is an outbreak caused by MenW or MenY at the destination, revaccination should be given at the family’s expense. The Bexsero vaccine against meningococcal B is often available and should be used if staying in an area where an outbreak is ongoing or at the parents’ request.
Rabies: There are no contraindications to rabies vaccination if indicated, but individuals with allergies to vaccine components should receive the vaccine in a setting where treatment for anaphylaxis is available. Post-exposure treatment, if vaccination was not given beforehand, requires both vaccination and rabies immunoglobulin or rabies serum, which is derived from human or animal blood and is often difficult to obtain, even in areas where rabies is common among wild mammals.
Typhoid fever: May be given from 24 months of age, although there is still some infection risk. Antibiotics are required to treat typhoid fever if infection occurs. Recommended for all travel to South Asia (especially Pakistan, India, Bangladesh), but mainly for longer trips (2+ weeks) to areas south of Texas in the Americas, Africa, or Asia.
Tick-borne encephalitis: The vaccine available here may be used for children from 12 months of age. If traveling to an area where children receive the vaccine as part of the national program, it is appropriate for the child to receive the vaccine before travel if possible, even if all recommended doses cannot be completed beforehand. A booster dose may be required if 3–5 years have passed since completion of the primary vaccination series. Good insect repellent, reapplied approximately every 2 hours, reduces the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Cholera: May be given if there is a possible risk of infection at the destination, but it is not recommended to travel with children to areas where a cholera outbreak is ongoing.
Dengue: The vaccine may only be used in connection with travel if the child has previously had dengue. Dengue can be a dangerous disease at any age; good mosquito protection, both day and night, reduces the risk of infection.
- Automatic translation
Tuberculosis (TB): Can be given from birth, but vaccination against TB is not available in this country. Children who have reached 5 years of age gain limited benefit from vaccination, as the risk of rapid disease progression is only slightly higher than in older individuals.
Ebola: The vaccine is registered but not available in Europe. Traveling with children to areas with ongoing outbreaks is not recommended.
Mpox: The vaccine is not used in connection with travel in this country, only for children after exposure.
- Automatic translation
Sunburn: Sunburn can be very serious and may lead to permanent skin damage, infections, and other complications. Sun protection of all kinds should be used whenever the sun is out: hats, shade/parasols, lightweight but long-sleeved and long-legged clothing, and sunscreen that blocks all rays on exposed skin.
Mosquito-borne diseases: There is a risk of serious illness from various mosquito-borne diseases. It is important to use mosquito nets whenever the child sleeps, both day and night, and to apply mosquito repellent regularly. Repellent should be applied over sunscreen.
Malaria: Children aged 5 years and older who have not grown up in malaria-endemic areas or have lived outside such areas for two years or more are at risk of severe malaria and should take Malarone according to weight when traveling in malaria-endemic regions.
Hydration: Traveling children should drink sufficient fluids, including boiled water, pasteurized milk, well-boiled tea, mineral solutions, or (possibly pasteurized) fruit juice. Children unaccustomed to heat may lose their appetite for fluids and can dehydrate easily in hot climates. It is advisable to carry Resorb or a similar mineral powder intended for children while traveling, which should be mixed with boiled and cooled water if used. Travelers can become ill from water that is not considered safe for drinking; chlorine tablets, carbon filters, UV/sunlight, or boiling can make unsafe water less risky. Pay special attention to water from showers and taps, which may be unsafe; the child’s mouth should remain closed while bathing. Ice in drinks should be avoided if tap water is unsafe, and in some areas, boiled/filtered/UV-treated water may be necessary even for tooth brushing.
Diarrheal illness: There is a high risk of diarrhea during travel, which can be infectious or non-infectious. Diarrhea combined with hot weather can put a child at serious risk. See also the points above.
Food safety: It is very important that children only eat well-cooked food. Fruits must be thoroughly washed and peeled before being given to children, and vegetables should preferably be cooked. Salads are not recommended where drinking water is unsafe.
Other infectious diseases: Various diseases not covered here may occur in outbreaks, many of which can have serious effects. Illness in a child while traveling should always be taken seriously.
- Automatic translation
Measles: Contagious for 4–5 days after the rash appears; still contagious if fever persists.
Chickenpox: Contagious until all lesions have crusted over.
Meningococcal disease: Not contagious if treated with antibiotics; life-threatening if not treated.
Tuberculosis: The risk of infection from children before puberty is extremely low or nonexistent. Children of primary school age are generally not in immediate life-threatening danger if they become infected with tuberculosis, but the risk of developing active tuberculosis in a child who has been infected increases somewhat at puberty.
Service provider
Directorate of Health