After years of disrupted global travel, more people are finally dusting off their passports and booking long-awaited trips. Whether it’s a family holiday, a semester abroad, or frequent business travel, there’s one essential step that often gets overlooked: travel vaccinations.
At Hodgson Pharmacy’s Travel Clinic in Longfield, near Dartford and Gravesend, our expert pharmacists provide tailored pre-travel consultations, ensuring every traveller is protected against the diseases that can spoil even the best-planned journeys.
Here’s why travel vaccinations are more important than ever, and how you can prepare safely before your next trip.
Global Travel Has Changed – So Have Health Risks
International travel has increased dramatically post-COVID, but so have the global health challenges that come with it. Different regions around the world still experience outbreaks of diseases that are uncommon in the UK. Even a quick stopover can expose you to risks you might not expect.
For instance:
- Hepatitis A and Typhoid are common in areas with limited sanitation.
- Yellow Fever is endemic in parts of Africa and South America, and proof of vaccination is required for entry to certain countries.
- Rabies remains a risk in Asia and parts of Eastern Europe, particularly for backpackers and students travelling long-term.
- Japanese Encephalitis affects rural areas in Southeast Asia.
Vaccines are your best defence against these threats, and Hodgson Pharmacy makes getting them simple, safe, and efficient.
Why Up-to-Date Vaccines Matter
Vaccines don’t just protect you from getting sick; they also prevent the spread of diseases to others. After the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining strong immunity while travelling has become a top priority for international health authorities.
Even routine boosters like Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio are vital to check before travelling abroad. Many travellers don’t realise their last booster may have been more than 10 years ago, well past its effective window.
At Hodgson Pharmacy, our pharmacists review your current vaccination history and provide the most up-to-date recommendations for your destination, travel duration, and personal health profile.
How a Pre-Travel Consultation Works
A pre-travel consultation is a quick but comprehensive appointment designed to assess your travel risks and prepare you for your journey.
At Hodgson Pharmacy, the process typically includes:
- Destination-specific risk assessment – Identifying the diseases prevalent in your chosen country or region.
- Review of your medical and vaccination history – Ensuring no unnecessary repeat doses.
- Recommendations for essential and optional vaccines – including Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Rabies, Yellow Fever, or Cholera, depending on the trip.
- Prescriptions for travel medications – Such as malaria prevention tablets or altitude sickness treatment.
- Advice on travel health essentials – Like mosquito bite prevention, food safety, and hydration.
It’s a fast, convenient, and professional way to make sure your travel health is fully covered, all under one roof.
Who Should Prioritise Travel Vaccinations?
Certain groups of travellers are at higher risk and should never skip their vaccinations:
- Families with children – Kids have developing immune systems and may require specific vaccines for travel to tropical or high-risk regions.
- Students studying abroad – Long-term stays and shared accommodations increase exposure risks.
- Frequent flyers and business travellers – Regular travel to multiple countries means staying current on vaccinations is vital.
- Older adults or those with medical conditions – Chronic illness can lower immunity, making vaccinations essential for safe travel.
If you’re unsure whether you’re due for boosters or what vaccines apply to your trip, our pharmacists can help.
Why Choose Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield?
- Trusted travel vaccine experts – Certified pharmacists trained in international travel health.
- Convenient access – Located in Longfield, easily reachable from Dartford and Gravesend.
- Same-day or next-day appointments – Ideal for last-minute travellers.
- Wide range of vaccines available – including Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and more.
- Comprehensive pre-travel advice – From malaria prevention to managing jet lag.
Find us on Google Maps: Hodgson Pharmacy, Longfield
FAQs
Q: Do I need travel vaccinations for Asia or Africa?
Yes, many destinations in Asia and Africa require or recommend vaccines such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever.
Q: How far in advance should I book my vaccinations?
Ideally, 6–8 weeks before travel. However, Hodgson Pharmacy also offers short-notice and same-day appointments for urgent travellers.
Q: Can I get malaria tablets at Hodgson Pharmacy?
Yes, our pharmacists can supply malaria prophylaxis after a short consultation; no doctor appointment needed.
Q: What if I’ve already had travel vaccines before?
Our team can review your vaccination history and determine if you need boosters or updated doses.
Q: Is the Yellow Fever vaccine available at Hodgson Pharmacy?
Yes, Hodgson Pharmacy is an authorised Yellow Fever vaccination centre offering certificates for international travel.