By Dr Mark Sweet – TMA Surrey Hills, Melbourne
Vaccinations are one of the most powerful tools we have to protect against infectious diseases. At Travel Medicine Alliance, we regularly recommend immunisations for travellers heading to exotic and tropical destinations—whether it's to safeguard against hepatitis, typhoid, or yellow fever.
But the benefits of vaccines extend well beyond travel protection. Recent evidence suggests that certain routine vaccines may play a role in cancer prevention and even lowering the risk of dementia.
Here’s how vaccines may be doing more for your long-term health than you think.
Hepatitis B: Lifelong Protection & Liver Cancer Prevention
Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause liver inflammation, jaundice, and prolonged fatigue. Chronic infection is a major risk factor for liver cancer. The good news? The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective, with full vaccination often providing lifelong protection.
According to the World Health Organisation, over 7 million deaths have been prevented in the Western Pacific alone thanks to this vaccine. In fact, 1 in 3 people globally have been infected with the hepatitis B virus at some point in their lives, making vaccination a crucial preventive measure.
Who should get it?
All Australian children receive this vaccine through the national immunisation schedule. Adults travelling to at-risk regions—or those working in healthcare or with blood exposure—should also consider getting vaccinated.
HPV Vaccine: Guarding Against More Than Cervical Cancer
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is most widely known for causing cervical cancer, but it’s also linked to cancers of the vulva, anus, throat, and mouth.
Australia’s HPV vaccine (Gardasil) is a game-changer. It protects against the most dangerous strains of the virus and is provided free to all teenagers through the national program.
Who should get it?
Adults who missed the vaccine in adolescence can access it privately. If you're sexually active and have not been vaccinated, it’s worth discussing with your doctor.
Routine Vaccines and Dementia: What’s the Link?
Emerging studies suggest that routine vaccines may reduce the risk of developing dementia. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, it may relate to how infections affect nerve and brain cells. Preventing infection could therefore reduce neurological damage over time.
Vaccines showing potential links to reduced dementia risk include:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Influenza
- Diphtheria
- Shingles
Reference: Gavi – Routine Vaccines Could Prevent Dementia
While more research is needed, these findings offer an exciting perspective: immunisation could be a powerful tool in healthy ageing, not just travel protection.
Travel Doesn’t Always Mean Overseas
While we often focus on international destinations, there’s plenty to explore closer to home—and just as many reasons to stay protected.
Tennant Creek, NT
I recently spent time working at the Anyinginyi Health Centre in Tennant Creek, a welcoming town in the heart of the red centre with a population of around 3,000. Remote travel in Australia still carries health considerations, especially for those working with communities or outdoors.
Lord Howe Island
Another standout destination was Lord Howe Island in winter. With few tourists and perfect walking weather, it’s a nature-lover’s dream. Thanks to the successful removal of invasive species like goats and rats, native animals like the Lord Howe Woodhen are thriving. Plus—no snakes!
Even domestic adventures benefit from good preparation. Depending on your itinerary, you may still need vaccines or preventive health advice before exploring rural or remote parts of Australia.
Key Takeaways for Travellers
- Vaccines do more than prevent disease—they may reduce risks of cancer and dementia.
- Don’t skip your travel vaccines, even for domestic trips.
- Adults can still access vaccines like Hep B, HPV, Shingles, and Typhoid based on risk.
- Speak to your travel doctor about the broader health benefits of immunisation.
Need Personalised Vaccine Advice?
Whether you’re heading overseas or exploring Australia’s outback, your local TMA clinic can help you prepare. We offer up-to-date vaccine guidance, travel consultations, and personalised health plans based on your destination and health history.
Find your nearest TMA travel health clinic
Safe and healthy travels,
Dr Mark Sweet
Travel Doctor – TMA Surrey Hills, Melbourne