Travel vaccinations

The routine vaccinations given by the NHS protect you against many illnesses, but do not cover all the serious infectious diseases found in other parts of the world.

If you’re planning to travel outside the UK, you may need some extra vaccinations to help keep you safe.

If you’re only visiting northern and central Europe, North America or Australia, you probably won’t need additional vaccines.

But do check that you’re up to date with your routine vaccinations and have any booster vaccines if needed. If you have children who will travel with you, make sure they’ve had all the immunisations they need. For a handy checklist, see the NHS website.

Which travel vaccines do I need?

You can find out which vaccinations are needed or recommended for the countries you’re visiting on these websites:

• Travel Health Pro
• NHS Fit for Travel.

You can also read about all the travel vaccinations available, the number of doses and how far in advance you should have the vaccine, on the NHS website: available travel vaccines.

Planning ahead

Try to see your GP or a private travel clinic at least six to eight weeks before you plan to travel. Some vaccines need to be given well in advance to allow your body to develop immunity.

If you already have a health problem, you may be at more risk of infection or complications from an illness while travelling. You may also be at more risk if you are:

• visiting rural areas
• backpacking, camping or staying in hostels
• on a long trip.

Some countries require proof of vaccination against some diseases. This is recorded on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). Even if an ICVP is not required, it’s a good idea to take a record of your vaccinations with you.

You can check individual countries’ requirements on the Travel Health Pro website. If you are travelling to Saudi Arabia as a Hajj or Umrah pilgrim, you will need proof of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis ACWY.

About travel vaccinations

This NHS travel vaccinations page has useful information on:

• where to get your travel vaccinations
• which vaccines are available free on the NHS, and which ones you will have to pay for
• having a travel vaccine if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a weakened immune system.