London Drugs Offers Travel & Immunization Clinics to Help Protect Travelers Against Cholera, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid Fever, Meningitis and Others

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - May 1, 2014) - According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association adventure travel is on the rise. But the encounter with the unfamiliar - the thrill of the unknown - can also put those traveling outside of Canada at risk for a number of diseases that can be prevented by vaccines.

"Certain vaccines are required to enter a country. Others are recommended to help avoid common illnesses affecting vacationers such as traveler's diarrhea or hepatitis," says London Drugs Travel Medicine Pharmacist, Jacqueline VandeBeek-Ainslie.

Vaccine recommendations depend on a number of factors including destination, duration, and nature of travel, age and previous immunization history. For example, International Health Regulations require Yellow Fever vaccination for travel to countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South America. Saudi Arabia requires proof of meningococcal vaccination travel during certain dates.

To help individuals understand the requirements for certain types of travel and preventative options available, London Drugs offers Travel & Immunization Clinics at 16 locations in B.C. and Alberta including a new clinic in Calgary. Travelers can book a one-on-one consultation with a Travel Medicine Pharmacist to discuss their needs and receive the vaccinations. Pharmacies can also direct bill most patient's insurance plans.

"We educate and prepare patients for a safe and healthy trip and we administer vaccinations. All these services are available by-appointment and do not require patients to visit their doctor," says VandeBeek-Ainslie.

London Drugs internationally certified Travel Medicine Pharmacists undergo a yearlong training program culminating in an exam through the International Society of Travel Medicine in order to receive a Certificate in Travel Health™. The London Drugs Travel & Immunization Clinic is a certified Yellow Fever vaccination centre.

For a list of locations or for more information visit LDTravelClinics.ca.

ABOUT LONDON DRUGS

Founded in 1945, B.C.-based London Drugs has 78 stores in more than 35 major markets throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba including its online store www.londondrugs.com. London Drugs offers consumers a range of products from digital cameras and cosmetics to computers and televisions. Renowned for its creative approach to retailing, the company employs more than 7,500 people with pharmacy and health care services being the heart of its business. Committed to innovation and superior customer service, London Drugs has established itself as a reputable and caring company and continues to position itself for future growth and development.