How can I reduce my risk for infectious disease?
Please read Risk Reduction for Infectious Diseases for prevention tips and suggestions.

How do services at Travel Clinics differ from services at my family doctor?
Travel Medicine is a specialty just like Endocrinology or Ophthalmology. It is unrealistic to think that one’s family doctor can be knowledgeable in all areas of medicine and be able to supply all necessary services. Travel Clinics are prepared to provide preventative pre-travel and post-travel illness care.

Is a referral from a family doctor necessary to make an appointment?
Generally no. This is because when you seek services at a travel clinic you are healthy as opposed to ill. As a result 99 percent of insurance plans will not reimburse for services. Payment is by cash, check, or credit card at the time of service. You will be given an itemized statement before leaving the clinic if you wish to seek reimbursement from your insurance company.

What do travel services cost?
New patients pay a new patient visit fee. This includes review of pertinent medical history, individualized educational materials/trip counseling, and prescriptions for necessary medications. Immunizations are available during the initial visit if desired. These vaccines are individually priced and can vary greatly. Once established as a patient, you have the option to return in the future to complete the series of vaccines started, get boosters, or receive new vaccines without paying another visit fee. You will be charged administration fees in addition to charges for the vaccines. If you have a new itinerary and would like services similar to those provided initially you would pay the visit fee again. Our goal is to customize our services to meet your needs and be as cost effective as possible.

When is the best time to schedule an appointment?
Usually we can accommodate travelers on a few days notice, however the general rule is four to five weeks prior to departure. If you are uncertain about the timing of your appointment we will be happy to discuss the nature of your trip and advise accordingly. Generally we can accommodate travelers on a few days notice.

Is an appointment necessary?
Yes, we do not offer walk-in services. Our appointment coordinator can be reached at 919-416-DUKE (919-416-3853) or toll free at 888-ASK-DUKE (888-275-3853). Please arrive 15 minutes early for check in. Call at least 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule.

Is there anything special I need to do before or after my visit?
There are no dietary or activity restrictions. However, you must come prepared with your medical information (i.e.: medical diagnoses, allergies, medications, and immunization dates) in order to be seen. In warm weather, please bring a small insulated container with an ice pack, as one of our vaccines may be self-administered by you at home.

Does the travel clinic see travelers under the age of 16?
Duke International Travel Clinic does not currently see patients under the age of 16. We recommend that you contact Concentra Medical Center at 919-941-1911 for patients in this age group.

Where do college students receive immunizations?
If the student attends Duke University they should contact Duke Student Health Services at 681-WELL (919-681-9355). Other university students are welcome to use the services at the Duke International Travel Clinic.

Is the Duke International Travel Clinic able to provide yellow fever immunizations and provide the required certificate?
Yes.

Are there some individuals who should not travel or receive immunizations?
In general, individuals who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or immunosupressed are at increased risk when traveling and may not be able to receive certain vaccines and medicines and may receive less then optimal benefit from those that would be considered safe.