How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Travel Vaccines Consultation

Audience: pediatric

Preparing for a video visit about travel vaccines can help ensure your child gets the right advice and protection before traveling. During the visit, a healthcare provider will review your child's health history, travel plans, and vaccine needs. You can discuss any concerns or questions you have about vaccine safety and timing. To get ready, gather important health records, know your travel details, and prepare a list of questions. The provider may recommend specific vaccines based on the destination and your child's age. Telemedicine visits offer a convenient way to get expert guidance but cannot provide vaccines directly or emergency care. If your child has serious health issues or urgent symptoms, seek in-person care promptly. This guide helps you understand what to expect and how to prepare for a helpful and safe video consultation about travel vaccines for your child.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If your child develops a high fever (above 39°C or 102°F) or severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, seek emergency medical care immediately.
• If your child has a serious illness or weakened immune system, inform your healthcare provider before the visit to ensure safe vaccine recommendations.
• If you notice signs of infection at a vaccine site after vaccination, such as redness, swelling, or pus, contact a healthcare professional promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing your child's health and vaccination history
• Discussing travel plans and vaccine recommendations
• Answering questions about vaccine safety and timing
• Providing guidance on where to get vaccines in person

What telemedicine cannot do

• Administering vaccines
• Performing physical examinations
• Managing emergencies or urgent health problems
• Diagnosing or treating complex medical conditions

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's health history, any allergies, current medicines, and previous vaccines. You'll discuss your travel plans, including destinations, length of stay, and activities. Based on this information, the provider will suggest which vaccines your child may need to stay protected during travel.

Gather Important Information Before the Visit

Before the video call, collect your child's vaccination records and any recent health documents. Write down your travel itinerary, including countries and cities to be visited. Prepare a list of questions or concerns about vaccines, side effects, or timing to discuss with the provider.

How to Use Technology for a Smooth Visit

Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) has a working camera and microphone. Test your internet connection and the telemedicine platform ahead of time. Find a quiet, well-lit space for the visit to help communication. Have your notes and records ready to share or show during the call.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for Travel Vaccines

Telemedicine can provide expert advice, review health history, and recommend vaccines. However, it cannot administer vaccines or provide physical exams. You will need to visit a clinic or pharmacy in person to get the actual vaccines. Telemedicine also cannot handle emergencies or serious health problems that require immediate care.

After the Video Visit: Next Steps

Follow the provider's recommendations about which vaccines your child needs. Schedule an appointment at a local clinic or pharmacy to get the vaccines. Keep track of vaccine dates and any side effects. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice unusual reactions or if your travel plans change.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Gather your child's vaccination records and recent health information.
• Write down your travel itinerary including countries and duration.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns about travel vaccines.
• Ensure your device has a working camera and microphone.
• Test your internet connection and telemedicine platform before the visit.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video consultation.

After your tele-visit

• Schedule an in-person appointment to receive the recommended vaccines.
• Monitor your child for any side effects after vaccination.
• Keep a record of vaccine dates and any reactions.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you notice serious side effects or if your travel plans change.
• Follow any additional health advice given during the video visit.

FAQs

Why does my child need travel vaccines?

Travel vaccines protect your child from diseases that may be common in the places you plan to visit. These vaccines help prevent illnesses that are not usually found in your home country.

Can I get the vaccines during the video visit?

No, vaccines cannot be given during a video visit. The healthcare provider will recommend which vaccines your child needs, and you will need to visit a clinic or pharmacy to receive them in person.

What if my child has allergies or health problems?

Be sure to tell the healthcare provider about any allergies or health conditions your child has. This information helps the provider recommend the safest vaccines and timing for your child.

How far in advance should we have the travel vaccine consultation?

It's best to have the consultation at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel. Some vaccines require multiple doses spaced over time, so early planning helps ensure your child is fully protected.

What if we change our travel plans after the visit?

If your travel plans change, contact your healthcare provider. Vaccine recommendations may differ based on new destinations or timing, so updated advice is important.

Sources

1. Travel Vaccines — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Vaccines for International Travel — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Travel Health — World Health Organization (WHO).
4. Immunization: What You Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. Always seek direct medical attention for emergencies, serious health concerns, or when vaccines need to be administered.