(Courtesy of Parkview Pharmacy) As so many individuals are traveling to Israel, it is important that appropriate safety precautions are taken to ensure a safe and healthy trip.

While polio has been eradicated in most parts of the world, there are still certain countries where the disease is endemic and outbreaks continue to occur. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, currently Israel is at a Level 2 alert, which recommends that individuals traveling to Israel practice enhanced precautions.

Polio is a highly infectious life-threatening viral disease that affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis, disability, and death. Polio is transmitted through person-to-person contact and is mostly spread through the fecal matter of an infected person. Therefore, handwashing is encouraged to prevent disease transmission.

Before traveling to Israel, the CDC is currently recommending that children should be up to date on their routine polio vaccines and adults should receive an inactivated polio vaccine booster if they have completed their routine polio vaccine series or if they have not already received an adult booster dose.

By taking these precautions, travelers can reduce their risk of illness and enjoy a safe and healthy Passover in Israel. Stop by Parkview Pharmacy to receive your booster or call us at 201-837-6368 to learn more about the vaccine.