The NHS is reminding anyone planning a trip abroad not to overlook one vital step: getting the proper vaccinations. It stresses that taking precautions before you travel could even save your life by preventing illness and reducing the risk of complications.

The NHS is urging travelers to prioritize their health by ensuring they receive the necessary vaccinations before embarking on international journeys. Taking these preventative measures can be crucial for avoiding illnesses and minimizing the risk of serious complications while abroad.

On its official website, the NHS advises: “If you’re planning to travel outside the UK, you may need to be vaccinated against some of the serious diseases found in other parts of the world. Vaccinations are available to protect you against infections such as yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. While the UK’s routine immunisation schedule covers many diseases, it does not include all infectious diseases present overseas.”

Plan ahead

In essence, securing the appropriate vaccinations before traveling is a wise precaution. Here’s what travelers need to know:

Schedule an appointment with your GP or a private travel clinic at least six to eight weeks prior to your trip. Some vaccines need time to become effective, and others may require multiple doses over several weeks.

Which travel vaccines do I need?

The Travel Health Pro website can help you find out which vaccines are recommended for your destination. Some countries require proof of vaccination, known as an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), for diseases such as yellow fever or polio. It’s also sensible to carry a copy of your vaccination record while travelling.

Where to get vaccinated

Check with your GP surgery to make sure your routine UK vaccinations are up to date. They can also advise you about issues such as malaria prevention. Private travel clinics and some pharmacies offer additional vaccines. Not all travel vaccinations are provided free on the NHS, so if there’s a charge, request a written quote covering the full course and any certification costs.

Free jabs

The following travel vaccines are available free on the NHS from your GP surgery:

• polio (given as a combined diphtheria/tetanus/polio jab)
• typhoid
• hepatitis A
• cholera

The NHS says: “These vaccines are free because they protect against diseases thought to represent the greatest risk to public health if they were brought into the country.”

Jabs you need to pay for

You’ll have to pay for travel vaccinations against:

• hepatitis B
• Japanese encephalitis
• meningitis
• rabies
• tick-borne encephalitis
• tuberculosis (TB)
• yellow fever

The NHS further explain: “Yellow fever vaccines are only available from designated centres. The cost of travel vaccines that are not available on the NHS will vary, depending on the vaccine and number of doses you need.”

Other things you need to know

There are other things to consider when planning your travel vaccinations, including:

• Your age and health: Some people are more vulnerable to infections, and certain vaccines aren’t suitable for those with specific medical conditions.
• Aid or charity work: Working in refugee camps or disaster zones may increase exposure to disease.
• Healthcare roles: Medical professionals might require additional immunisations.
• Animal contact: Close contact with animals can increase the risk of diseases such as rabies.

Heading here?

The NHS have addressed some holidaymakers, adding: “If you’re only travelling to countries in northern and central Europe, North America or Australia, you’re unlikely to need any vaccinations. But it’s essential to check that you’re up to date with the routine vaccinations available on the NHS.

Pregnancy and other worries

If you’re pregnant, speak to your GP before getting vaccinated. While most vaccines are safe, professional guidance is important.

Similarly, if you have HIV, are undergoing chemotherapy, or have had an organ transplant, some vaccines may not be suitable. Always seek medical advice if you are worried, including before travelling.