“When should I start thinking about the vaccines I need?”
As a guide patients should ideally start planning their travel vaccinations at least 6 to 8 weeks before they travel.
For longer trips or trips with multiple destinations please allow more time. This gives time for an appointment with the nurse, time to arrange any vaccines not provided by the NHS, and time for the vaccines to take effect
If you are travelling abroad you may need to be vaccinated. The practice nurse can give you information on which vaccines you require, discuss the vaccines you have received already and go over travel health tips to help protect you while you are abroad.
It is important to note that not all vaccines are available through your GP surgery, and you may need to make additional appointments to receive any vaccines the nurse deems necessary. Some vaccines need a booster dose to be effective, and others are only available on prescription, so the clinical pharmacist may need to be involved and private prescription charges discussed, therefore it is essential you plan and allow plenty of time to receive vaccinations for travel.
The nurse will review guidance from the world health organisation which is kept up to date regarding any outbreaks or changes in disease prevalence. You can peruse your travel destination information using the link at the bottom of this page.
The nurse is happy to discuss your travel health face to face or over the phone if you prefer. Please contact the surgery to make an appointment.
