Travel Medicine for Immunocompromised Travelers: An Essential Layer of Protection

For immunocompromised travelers, travel medicine plays a key role in reducing infection risk. We aim to provide an overview on how to approach pre-travel counseling, travel-related vaccines, antimicrobial prophylaxis, and the evaluation of symptomatic returning travelers.

Pre-travel emphasis on vaccination, education, and antimicrobial prophylaxis remains important as immunocompromised travelers often have itineraries with exposure risks similar to their immunocompetent counterparts. Regional health agencies’ guidelines should always be consulted for country-specific recommendations. Special attention should be given to vaccines for seasonal influenza, coronavirus disease-2019 vaccines, and respiratory syncytial virus as mass transit augments exposure to respiratory viruses.

The practice of travel medicine for immunocompromised patients focuses on targeted risk reduction strategies, vaccination, prophylaxis, and contingency planning. An individualized approach is necessary for each case, and clinicians are obligated to remain updated on emerging infectious risks.