A shot in the arm for a shot at gold

The Australian Women’s Football team received travel vaccinations free of charge as part of an agreement between GSK and the Australian Olympics committee which sees all potential Olympic team members vaccinated to help ensure our athletes are fighting fit for competition at the Rio 2016 Olympics.

“This vaccination program is helping to ensure that the health and wellbeing of our athletes is protected so that they can achieve their Olympic dreams,” Dr James Ilic, Team Doctor, Australian Women’s Football Team, said at the Australian Institute of Sport in Canberra.

“We’re encouraging all athletes to speak with their medical advisers to discuss their vaccination requirements. This is an important part of each athlete’s preparation for the Games, to prevent any ill-health that could detract from their performance.

“We’re also encouraging all our officials and support staff to do the same. For travel to Brazil, vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, rabies, typhoid are recommended and the Australian Government requires people entering Australia from Brazil to be vaccinated against yellow fever,” Dr Ilic said.

Australian Footballer and Olympian, Ms Caitlin Munoz, indicated that she is pleased to have the opportunity to take care of her health as she prepares for the competition in Rio de Janeiro later this year.

“I will be taking all necessary precautions in the lead up to Rio to make sure that I can perform at my best. I’d be devastated if I were to get sick and not be at my best, particularly if I found out that it was something I could have prevented,” Ms Munoz said.

As GSK Medical Director for Vaccines Dr Andrea Forde explained, “Healthy travel is important for all Australians, whether they’re travelling for business, for leisure or for a significant international event like the Olympics.

“Australian Government guidelines recommend that all intending travellers be vaccinated according to the recommended vaccination schedule for their age. This includes booster vaccinations against diseases like diphtheria and tetanus.

“Australians travelling to less developed areas, like many of our favourite beach holiday destinations in South East Asia, need to be even more aware of their travel health.

“A visit to the doctor at least six weeks prior to departure will help ensure you get the right advice for your particular health needs and can help you protect yourself against avoidable diseases when travelling,” Dr Forde said.

For further information on what vaccines are required before you travel visit www.myvaccination.com.au/travel