Travel Vaccines
Travelling abroad is exciting, but ensuring you’re protected against health risks should be a top priority. At Aldermans Pharmacy in London, we offer comprehensive travel vaccination services to keep you safe while you explore the world. From expert advice on region-specific diseases to administering essential vaccines, we are here to make your pre-travel preparations easy and effective. Our pharmacists are trained to help you stay healthy, so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Why Are Travel Vaccines Important?
International travel exposes you to unfamiliar environments and, in some cases, diseases that are rare in the UK. Vaccines help protect you against illnesses you may encounter abroad, reducing the risk of severe health complications. Diseases like hepatitis, typhoid, and yellow fever can be severe and are preventable with the right vaccinations. Aldermans Pharmacy provides expert guidance and a tailored vaccination plan based on your travel destination, health status, and any prior vaccinations you’ve received.
Our travel clinic offers a full suite of travel vaccinations for popular destinations worldwide. Here are ten essential vaccines recommended for travellers:
1. Hepatitis A Vaccine
Who needs it? Hepatitis A is common in areas with poor sanitation, particularly in parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and Eastern Europe.
Why get vaccinated? Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus. It can be contracted through contaminated food and water, posing a high risk for travellers.
Dosage: Typically, a two-dose series provides long-term protection.
2. Hepatitis B Vaccine
Who needs it? This vaccine is recommended for travellers to regions with a high prevalence of hepatitis B, such as Africa, East Asia, and parts of South America.
Why get vaccinated? Hepatitis B is a potentially serious viral infection of the liver. It spreads through contact with blood and bodily fluids, putting travellers at risk during medical procedures, tattoos, or sexual contact.
Dosage: A three-dose course offers robust immunity; accelerated schedules may also be available.
3. Typhoid Vaccine
Who needs it? This vaccine is advisable for travellers to regions with poor sanitation, especially South Asia, parts of Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Why get vaccinated? Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella typhi, is a life-threatening infection acquired through contaminated food and water.
Dosage: Options include an injectable or oral vaccine, both effective for about three years.
4. Rabies Vaccine
Who needs it? Travellers spending extended periods in rural areas or those working with animals in high-risk countries such as India, China, and parts of Africa should consider this vaccine.
Why get vaccinated? Rabies is a deadly virus spread through bites or scratches from infected animals. Immediate treatment is essential, and pre-exposure vaccination reduces the urgency of medical intervention if bitten.
Dosage: A three-dose course is recommended for those at risk.
5. Yellow Fever Vaccine
Who needs it? This vaccine is mandatory for travellers entering specific countries in South America and Africa. Some countries require proof of vaccination upon entry.
Why get vaccinated? Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. It can cause severe illness, including jaundice, organ failure, and death.
Dosage: A single dose provides lifelong protection.
6. Cholera Vaccine
Who needs it? Travellers visiting regions with cholera outbreaks or those working in high-risk environments may benefit from this vaccine, particularly in parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and Haiti.
Why get vaccinated? Cholera, caused by the Vibrio cholerae bacterium, leads to severe diarrhoea and dehydration, which can be fatal if untreated.
Dosage: An oral vaccine is available and provides protection for up to two years.
7. Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Who needs it? This vaccine is recommended for travellers spending an extended time in rural Asia, especially in the monsoon season, where mosquito exposure is high.
Why get vaccinated? Japanese encephalitis is a viral brain infection spread through mosquito bites. It can cause severe neurological damage or death.
Dosage: A two-dose schedule is typical, with a booster dose required for extended protection.
8. Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) Vaccine
Who needs it? This vaccine is advised for travellers to forested regions of Europe and Asia, particularly those participating in outdoor activities.
Why get vaccinated? Tick-borne encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted by ticks. It can cause serious inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, leading to long-term neurological effects.
Dosage: A three-dose schedule is recommended for optimal protection.
9. Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccine
Who needs it? This vaccine is required for travellers to sub-Saharan Africa’s “meningitis belt” and for Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
Why get vaccinated? Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial infection that can lead to severe brain inflammation, causing death or long-term disability if untreated.
Dosage: A single dose is typically effective, with boosters advised for long-term immunity.
10. Polio Vaccine
Who needs it? Polio vaccination is advised for travellers to areas where polio transmission is active, primarily parts of Africa and Asia.
Why get vaccinated? Poliomyelitis is a viral disease that can lead to permanent paralysis and, in severe cases, death. Vaccination is the best preventive measure.
Dosage: A single dose of the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) provides protection, often as a booster if previously vaccinated.
Why Choose Aldermans Pharmacy for Your Travel Vaccines?
Expertise: Our pharmacists are well-versed in travel health and stay updated on the latest travel guidelines to ensure you receive the most relevant advice and vaccines.
Convenience: Located in London, Aldermans Pharmacy offers flexible appointment times, making it easy to fit a visit around your schedule.
Personalised Care: We focus on providing tailored solutions to meet each traveller’s unique needs, ensuring you’re fully protected for a worry-free journey.
Competitive Pricing: We offer travel vaccines at competitive prices to make travel health affordable.
FAQs
How early should I get my travel vaccines?
It’s best to start the vaccination process 6–8 weeks before your trip, especially for multi-dose vaccines like hepatitis B.
Can I get all my vaccines in one visit?
Yes, in many cases, multiple vaccines can be administered during the same visit, though some may require a specific schedule. Our pharmacists will advise you on the best approach.
Are there any side effects?
Most vaccines have mild side effects, such as soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or fatigue. Our team will provide guidance on managing any symptoms.
Our Travel Vaccine Prices
Our aim is to provide high-quality healthcare at a price that’s accessible to all. We prioritise keeping our services as affordable as possible for our patients. Here is a detailed list of the vaccinations we offer:
| Vaccine | Price |
|---|---|
| Hep A | £45 per dose |
| Hep B | £45 per dose |
| Diphtheria/Tetanus/Polio | £40 |
| Paediatric Hep A | £50 per dose |
| Japanese Encephalitis | £110 per dose |
| Meningitis ACWY + Certificate | £50 |
| Rabies | £100 per dose |
| Typhoid | £40 |
| Yellow Fever + Certificate | £ 80 |
| Hep B Paediatric | £50 per dose |
| Chicken Pox | £75 per dose |
| Chikungunya | £175 per dose |
Book Your Travel Vaccines
Ensure you’re protected with the right vaccinations before your next adventure. Contact Aldermans Pharmacy in London to schedule your travel vaccine appointment. We’re here to keep you safe, wherever your travels take you.
