Travel Vaccines Clinic

Travel Vaccine Clinic – Frequently Asked Questions​
 

How early should I book my travel vaccines?

As soon as you know you’re travelling — but it’s never too late.

Ideally, travelers should book 6–8 weeks before departure to allow enough time for full immunity. That said, we regularly help last-minute travelers, even those leaving within days.

Many vaccines begin offering protection quickly, and when time is tight, our pharmacists can design an accelerated schedule tailored to your destination and travel date.

During your appointment, we’ll map out exactly what you need and when — clearly and efficiently.

 

Do you offer the Yellow Fever vaccine?

Yes — and we keep it in stock.

Tartan Pharmacy is an authorized Yellow Fever vaccination center, meaning we can administer the vaccine and issue the official International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card) required for entry into certain countries.

 No waitlists
No referrals required
Official documentation provided on-site

Yellow Fever vaccine availability can be limited in Ottawa — we ensure consistent access for our patients.
 

Your Travel Health Consultation​

What happens during a travel vaccine appointment?

Your consultation is a comprehensive, one-on-one assessment, typically lasting about 30 minutes. It includes:

• Review of your destinations, length of stay, and activities

• Risk assessment based on regional health concerns

• Vaccine recommendations (required vs. optional)

• Review of your medical history and current medications

• Malaria prevention and other travel-related medications if needed

• Education on food, water, insect, and health safety abroad

• Completion of all required documentation

In most cases, vaccines are given during the same visit, so there’s no need for multiple appointments unless a multi-dose series is required. Our goal is simple: the right protection for your trip — no more, no less.

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Costs, Coverage & Insurance​

How much do travel vaccines cost?

Costs depend on where you’re travelling and which vaccines are required. Pricing includes professional assessment and vaccine administration.

Exact costs are reviewed during your consultation once your itinerary is assessed.

 Call us ahead of time if you’d like a general estimate.

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Are travel vaccines covered by insurance?

Travel vaccines are not covered by OHIP, but most private insurance plans reimburse part or all of the vaccine cost.

We direct bill most major insurers,

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For any non-billable portions, we provide a clear, insurance-ready receipt that’s easy to submit through your insurer’s app.

Bring your insurance card — we’ll verify coverage before proceeding.

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Why doesn’t OHIP cover travel vaccines?

Travel medicine is considered a non-insured preventive service, similar to vision care or dental services.

That said, prevention is far more affordable than treatment. Illnesses such as Hepatitis, Typhoid, or Yellow Fever can lead to serious complications and costly hospital care abroad.​​

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Booking & Appointments​

Do I need an appointment?

Not always but better to have one. Appointments ensure:

• Dedicated consultation time

• Personalized recommendations

• Vaccine availability for your visit

We offer flexible scheduling, and see you the same day or week

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 613-823-8030 | info@tartanpharmacy.ca

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What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for 7 days’ notice for cancellations to allow us to accommodate other travelers.
If you need to reschedule, just call — we’re happy to help.

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What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring what you can:

• Government-issued photo ID

• Insurance card

• Vaccination records (if available)

• Travel itinerary (dates, destinations, activities)

• List of current medications

Missing something? No problem — we can still proceed.
 

Vaccines & Travel Services​

What travel vaccines do you offer?

We provide a full range of travel health services, including:

Vaccines

• Yellow Fever (authorized center)

• Typhoid (oral & injectable)

• Hepatitis A & B

• Japanese Encephalitis

• Rabies (pre-exposure)

• Meningococcal

• Polio boosters

• Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)

• Cholera

Additional Travel Services

• Malaria prevention and prescriptions

• Traveler’s diarrhea medications

• Altitude sickness prevention

• Official travel documentation
   

Can I receive multiple vaccines in one visit?

Yes. Most travelers receive two to four vaccines in a single appointment.

Administering multiple vaccines at once is safe and common, and it helps reduce repeat visits. We’ll determine the safest and most effective combination for you.

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How long do travel vaccines last?

Protection varies by vaccine:

• Yellow Fever: Lifetime (single dose)

• Hepatitis A: 20+ years

• Hepatitis B: 20+ years

• Typhoid: 3–5 years (depending on type)

• Japanese Encephalitis: 1–3 years

We update your records and let you know when boosters may be needed for future travel.

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What if I don’t have my immunization records?

That’s very common — and not a problem.

Using your age, travel history, and health background, we can safely determine what you likely need. When records are unclear, boosters are often the safest approach.​
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Documentation & Records​

Will I receive proof of vaccination?

Yes. Depending on your vaccines, you may receive:

• International Certificate of Vaccination (Yellow Card)

• Updated vaccination records

• Prescription documentation for travel medications

All documentation meets international travel requirements.​
 

Safety & Follow-Up​

What side effects should I expect?

Most side effects are mild and short-lived, such as arm soreness or fatigue.

We’ll review expected side effects for each vaccine during your visit.

If you have concerns afterward:

• Call us at 613-823-8030

• Seek emergency care for rare severe reactions and inform them of the vaccines received

We’re available to support you after your appointment.

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Will I need follow-up visits?

Follow-ups are scheduled if:

• A multi-dose series is required

• Your travel dates require spacing vaccines

• Your medical history warrants monitoring

Most travelers complete everything in one or two visits.