Educational Series: Vaccination for older adults pre-winter season and in travellers

International travellers are exposed to a variety of health risks, including vaccine-preventable diseases. While COVID-19 and influenza are already recognised as common health risks, particularly for older travellers, it is important to also consider the risk of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in this group. Beyond addressing travellers’ needs, early pre-winter vaccination has emerged as a proactive approach for broader public health, particularly to safeguard older adults and other vulnerable populations before peak disease season. This publication reviews and compares the global burden of disease, patterns of disease activity and modes of transmission associated with COVID-19, influenza and RSV, as well as the effectiveness of vaccines and official recommendations for their use. The content is primarily intended for healthcare professionals who provide pre-travel health advice, including GPs, travel doctors, practice nurses and pharmacists – while also underscoring the broader benefit of pre-season vaccination for optimal population health outcomes.

This publication has been commissioned and funded by GSK. The content is based on published studies and the author’s opinions and may not reflect the views of GSK. Please consult the full Data Sheets for any medications mentioned in this article at www.medsafe.govt.nz before prescribing. Treatment decisions based on these data are the full responsibility of the prescribing physician. All trademarks mentioned in this review are the property of their respective owners.