Travelling around the world is one of the most exciting experiences that can happen in our lives. From planning out your trip and that first flight, all the way to immersing yourself in new cultures and meeting new people, it’s often cited as an enriching and rewarding experience.
However, you also need to take some precautions beforehand. Across the world, there are many diseases that are no longer present here in the UK. Because of that, it’s imperative to protect yourself as much as possible before setting off. Read on to find out more.
When you’ve decided when and where you are going to fly off to, it’s time to make a call to your GP to discover whether your existing vaccinations are up to date. Once the state of your vaccination record has been confirmed, you may have to renew some of your existing vaccinations and get some additional ones, depending on where you’re going.
During a consultation, provide your travel plan details to your GP and they will have the knowledge to advise on exactly what type of vaccinations you need. If your local GP doesn’t provide these vaccinations, you can contact a private clinic that does.
Below are the main vaccinations that you may need when travelling abroad. However, this all depends on the type of trip you are planning, where you are going and for how long. Again, a consultation with your GP will be able to illuminate what is imperative for your travel and what is optional.
Some of these are only available via a special travel vaccination centre, however, many are available from a GP. If you’re travelling to Africa, it’s imperative to have a Diptheria, Hepatitis A and Polio jab. For Asia, Diptheria and Hepatitis A are priorities and for South America, the most important vaccines are Hepatitis A and Tetanus. Other travellers may need a combination of the above listed vaccinations, but there are always some that are more important than others.
Depending on where you’re going, you should also consider malaria tablets. This is particularly true if you’re travelling to rural areas away from major cities in developing countries. A nurse or doctor will be able to advise you on whether you will need them, what type are best and when you should take them.
Get in touch to book an appointment today if you plan on going travelling. Our travel vaccination clinicians will be able to advise you on the correct action.