Which Vaccines Are Approved for International Travel?

Traveling internationally during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic requires careful planning, especially when it comes to vaccines. Various vaccines have been approved by the WHO under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for international travel. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the vaccines and their approval status for international travel.

World Health Organization Approved Vaccines for Travel

Several vaccines have received the EUA from the WHO, allowing citizens to travel across borders. These vaccines have undergone rigorous testing and have been deemed safe and effective by health authorities around the world. For the most updated travel advisory, it is essential to consult the relevant health agencies or official travel websites before embarking on your journey.

Moderna

The Moderna vaccine, developed in collaboration with the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), has been approved for travel to numerous countries under the EUA. Moderna's two-dose regimen provides highly effective protection against Covid-19, and it has been approved for use in over 100 countries as of the latest data.

Pfizer

The Pfizer-Biotech vaccine, co-developed with the NIAID, is also a popular choice for international travel. This vaccine has been approved for use in over 130 countries and is known for its high efficacy rate. The two-dose regimen of the Pfizer vaccine ensures robust protection against the virus.

AstraZeneca/Oxford

The AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine, also known as Covishield in some regions, has been approved for travel to a wide range of countries. Currently, it is approved for use in more than 150 countries, making it a versatile option for travelers.

Covaxin

The Covaxin vaccine, developed by ICMR in collaboration with BBIL, has also been approved for travel. As of now, it is approved for use in about 99 countries. Covaxin's approval for travel reflects its safety and effectiveness in preventing Covid-19.

Sinopharm

The Sinopharm vaccine, developed by Beijing Biological Products Institute of Sinopharm Group Company, has been approved for use in various countries. It is currently approved for travel to more than 50 countries, providing travelers with another reliable option to consider.

Sinovac

The Sinovac vaccine, also known as Vero Cell, has been approved for travel to several countries. While its approval for travel is expanding, it remains a viable choice for those seeking vaccination before international travel.

Country-Specific Vaccine Approvals

It is important to note that vaccine approval for international travel can vary by country. For instance, Covishield is approved for more than 150 countries, while Covaxine is approved for about 99 countries. These numbers can change over time as vaccine approval and travel restrictions evolve. To ensure you are traveling with the required vaccines, it is crucial to check the latest approval status and travel advisories from the relevant health agencies or official travel websites.

Conclusion

The choice of vaccine for international travel depends on the approval status in your destination country and your personal circumstances. With the EUA approved vaccines from leading pharmaceutical companies, travelers have a variety of options to choose from. Always check the latest travel advisories and consult with healthcare professionals to ensure you have the best protection while traveling.