Immunizations

Although no agency requires proof of any immunizations for travel to Brazil, experts strongly recommend that travelers consider taking some precautions. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the following vaccines:

  • Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG)
  • Rabies
  • Typhoid
  • Yellow fever
  • Booster doses for Hepatitis B, tetanus, diphtheria and measles

You should consult with your own health care provider to determine which immunizations you should obtain.  Some immunizations can take at least 4-6 weeks to take effect, so please see your physician in ample time.  If you plan to travel to other countries in Latin America be sure to check the CDC website to find out if they require immunizations for any of the areas to which you plan to travel. If you think you may be traveling to a country that requires proof of inoculations for entry, you should obtain an International Certificate of Vaccination through the World Health Organization (WHO):  202.861.3200.

Zika Virus, Dengue and Chikunguya: Nowadays, the mosquitoes that cause these diseases are the main concern in countries of Latin American, and Brazil is no exception. The WHO has declared the Zika virus an international public health emergency. The main concern is towards the suspect that the virus is link to microcephaly on newborns. Although, as of today, there is no death cases related to the virus, we encourage students to follow official preventive guidelines, as instructed by the Ministry of Health (http://combateaedes.saude.gov.br/). Attention must be both around the host home, at the university and other areas of the city, and on trips outside the city, state or the country. Middlebury School in Brazil is working with the universities and host families to ensure the maximum support to the students while in the country.

Yellow Fever: Due to recent outbreaks (2017 and 20018) of the mosquito that causes yellow fever in the regions of Minas Gerais and São Paulo and its possible spread through other areas in the country, we strongly encourage all students traveling to Brazil to get a yellow fever inoculation. Also, students should take extra precautions against mosquito bites in Brazil, and especially when traveling to the Iguaçu falls area.

It would also be prudent to ask your doctor about the need to get a vaccine against various strains of flu, especially if you are traveling during the winter months.