Protect Your Children with vaccinations Before Travel, IDAI Advises
Jakarta – The Indonesian pediatric Association (IDAI) is urging parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated before embarking on family holidays, particularly when traveling internationally. Dr. Martira, speaking at an online event Tuesday, emphasized the importance of vaccination due to varying disease patterns across different regions.
“Countries we visit have different epidemiology,” Dr.Martira explained. “We need to be wary of diseases like yellow fever, meningitis, dengue, and polio.” He further noted that geographical and climatic conditions in destination countries can also elevate the risk of disease transmission. Rainy conditions, high humidity, and warm temperatures can increase susceptibility to seasonal influenza and respiratory infections, especially during outdoor activities.
To minimize health risks for children during travel, IDAI recommends parents proactively check their child’s immunization status and consult with a doctor regarding necessary vaccinations. “There must be early counseling,” Dr. Martira stated. “Children are of different ages,so appropriate vaccination planning is needed. Not all vaccines can be given suddenly before leaving.”
Several countries mandate specific vaccinations for incoming tourists, including children. For example, many nations in africa and South America require proof of yellow fever vaccination.Travelers intending to enter Saudi Arabia may need to present certificates demonstrating vaccination against meningococcal disease, polio, and yellow fever.
IDAI advises that pre-travel vaccinations should ideally be administered four to six weeks before departure to allow the body sufficient time to develop optimal antibody protection. Parents are encouraged to review immunization cards, consult with a physician, and ensure children are up-to-date on both routine and recommended additional vaccinations.
“If it is incomplete, the risk of the child being infected increases,” Dr. martira warned. “Apart from that,the child can carry the disease to other countries or bring diseases from outside to Indonesia.”
(Source: ANTARA News Agency, reported by Adimas Raditya Fahky P, edited by Maryati, Copyright © ANTARA 2025)
