Vaccinations are a bit like sensible work boots: you may not admire them every day, but you are very glad they are there when things get messy. For people whose work may involve international travel, wastewater, sharp objects, cuts or contaminated material, being up to date can provide valuable protection against some seriously unpleasant infections.
Before you start, you will need to either get your vaccination history from your doctor (you can do this via MyIndici or ManageMyHealth) or get a quick blood test done at your local blood centre to make sure you get the right vaccinations.
Hepatitis A: the “mind what you touch” vaccine
Hepatitis A affects the liver and spreads through the faecal–oral route, including contaminated food or water. It is particularly relevant for people exposed to faeces or sewage at work. The usual course is two shots: the first dose, followed by a booster 6–12 months later. Think of dose one as introducing your immune system to the job and dose two as giving it the full induction.
Hepatitis B: the three-appointment series
Hepatitis B is a contagious virus that attacks the liver and may cause long-term illness. For many adults with occupational risk, the standard three-dose course is easy to remember: now, one month, six months. That means the first shot today, the second one month later, and the final dose six months after the first. Pop the dates in your calendar before your arm has even stopped complaining.
Polio: because wastewater is not just murky water
Poliovirus can be shed in faeces and spread through contaminated water, food or hands. New Zealand remains polio-free, but the virus has not been eradicated worldwide. If your work may expose you to human waste or wastewater, check that your polio immunisations are up to date. Gloves and good hygiene do the everyday heavy lifting; vaccination adds another important layer of protection.
Tetanus: it is not really about the rust
Rusty nails have excellent public relations, but tetanus bacteria are actually found in the environment, especially soil, and can enter through cuts, punctures and other wounds - even minor ones. Deep, dirty or contaminated wounds carry greater risk. Keep your boosters current, clean wounds promptly and seek medical advice if an injury may be tetanus-prone. The nail may be rusty, shiny or fashionably distressed; the wound is what matters.
