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Travel Vaccination: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Travel vaccinations help protect you from infections that are uncommon in the UK but can be more common abroad. Planning ahead can reduce your risk of illness, avoid travel disruption, and (for some destinations) help you meet entry requirements.

Why travel vaccines matter

When you travel, you may be exposed to different diseases through food, water, insects (like mosquitoes), animals, or close contact with other travellers. Even short trips can carry risk—especially if you’re visiting rural areas, travelling during rainy seasons, or staying for longer periods.

Key benefits include: – Reducing your risk of serious illness while abroad – Helping prevent infections being brought back home – Meeting destination requirements (for example, proof of vaccination for certain countries)

When should you book a travel vaccination appointment?

Aim to book 4–6 weeks before you travel where possible. Some vaccines need multiple doses over time, and your body may need time to build protection.

If you’re travelling sooner, it’s still worth booking—many vaccines can still offer meaningful protection even close to departure.

Common travel vaccines (and who may need them)

Your recommended vaccines depend on your destination, trip length, activities, medical history, and previous vaccinations.

Hepatitis A

Often recommended for travel to areas where hygiene and sanitation may be limited. It can be spread through contaminated food and water.

Typhoid

May be advised for travellers visiting parts of Asia, Africa, and Central/South America—especially if you’ll be eating local food or staying with friends and family.

Tetanus

Important for most travellers, particularly if you’ll be hiking, cycling, working outdoors, or visiting remote areas where medical care may be harder to access.

Rabies

May be recommended if you’ll be spending time in rural areas, working with animals, or travelling for longer periods. Rabies is spread through bites or scratches from infected animals.

Japanese encephalitis

Sometimes advised for travellers to certain parts of Asia, especially for longer stays, rural travel, or travel during transmission seasons.

Yellow fever

Required for entry into some countries and may be recommended for others. If you need proof of vaccination, you’ll receive an official certificate.

Travel health isn’t just vaccines

A good travel consultation also covers: – Malaria prevention advice (where relevant) – Mosquito bite avoidance (repellent, clothing, nets) – Food and water safety tips – Managing existing conditions and medications while abroad- What to pack in a travel health kit

Who should get travel vaccine advice?

Travel vaccine advice is especially important if you: – Are pregnant or trying to conceive – Have a weakened immune system – Have long-term medical conditions – Are travelling with children – Are visiting multiple countries – Plan to backpack, volunteer, or travel to remote areas

What to bring to your appointment

To make your travel consultation quick and accurate, bring: – Your travel itinerary (countries, regions, dates) – Any previous vaccination records (if available) – A list of current medications – Details of allergies or past vaccine reactions

Are travel vaccines safe?

Most people have no serious problems after vaccination. Common side effects are usually mild and short-lived.

Typical side effects can include: – Redness or soreness at the injection site – Headache – Mild fever – Feeling tired or lethargic

Your clinician will discuss suitability, benefits, and potential side effects during your consultation.

Travel vaccination in Great Yarmouth: quick, convenient appointments

If you’re travelling soon, booking a travel vaccination appointment at a local pharmacy can be a fast and convenient option.

At Pharmacyexprezz (Great Yarmouth), travel vaccination appointments are typically 15 minutes, withsame-day appointments available and a 24/7 online booking system.

FAQs

How much do travel vaccines cost?

Costs vary depending on the vaccine(s) you need. You’ll be advised during your consultation.

Can I get vaccinated if I’m travelling next week?

Often yes. It’s still worth booking—your clinician can prioritise the most important protection for your destination and timeframe.

Do I need vaccines for Europe?

Many travellers won’t need additional vaccines for most parts of Europe, but it depends on your itinerary, activities, and your routine vaccination status.

Book your travel vaccination appointment

The best time to plan your travel health is before you fly. Book early where possible, and get tailored advice based on your destination and health needs.

If you’re in Great Yarmouth or nearby Norfolk areas, you can book a travel vaccination appointment with Pharmacyexprezz and get expert, convenient support before you travel.