If you’re packing your bags for an exciting international trip, don’t forget one of the most crucial aspects of your travel checklist: vaccinations. Many travellers wait until the last minute to consider travel vaccines, unaware that some vaccinations require planning. At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, conveniently located near Dartford and Gravesend. We help you get protected and ready for your journey, even on short notice.
Why You Should Plan Your Travel Vaccines
Vaccines aren’t an afterthought. They are essential to protecting your health when travelling to regions where certain infectious diseases are more common. But timing is everything. Some vaccines take time to provide full protection, and others are administered in multiple doses over several weeks.
The Risk of Delaying
If you leave it too late, you may:
- Miss the window for full immunity
- Be ineligible for certain entry-required vaccines
- Have to skip important vaccines due to time constraints
Some countries have strict vaccination requirements that must be met before entry. For example, Yellow Fever vaccination certificates must be issued at least 10 days before travel to certain African and South American countries.
Common Travel Vaccines and Their Timelines
Here are some of the most commonly recommended vaccines for travellers from the UK and how early you should get them:
Vaccinations for Thailand, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia
- Hepatitis A & Typhoid: At least 2 weeks before departure
- Japanese Encephalitis: 2 doses over 28 days
- Rabies (pre-exposure): 3 doses over 3 to 4 weeks
Yellow Fever and Africa or South America Travel
- Yellow Fever: 10 days before travel (certificate issued)
- Cholera, Hepatitis B, Meningitis: 2–6 weeks before travel
Booking 6-8 weeks in advance ensures you won’t miss any critical timelines. But don’t worry, if your trip is last-minute, Hodgson Pharmacy will help prioritise the essential vaccines for your destination.
How Hodgson Pharmacy Supports Urgent Travellers
Based in Longfield and trusted by residents of Dartford and Gravesend, Hodgson Pharmacy offers quick, local access to:
- Walk-in and urgent travel vaccine appointments
- Expert guidance on what vaccines are required for your destination
- Official certificates like Yellow Fever, required for entry in certain countries
- Anti-malarial prescriptions and travel health advice
We help you make the most of your time and still travel protected, even if your trip is just around the corner.
Booking Made Simple: Call, Visit or Click
Booking your travel vaccinations at Hodgson Pharmacy is hassle-free:
- By phone: Speak to our pharmacist to review your destination and get advice
- In-store: Visit our Longfield clinic and have a face-to-face consultation
- Online: Use Google Maps to get directions and book quickly
Bring along your past vaccination records, if available, to streamline the process.
FAQs
How long before travel should I get vaccinated?
It is best to get vaccinated 6 to 8 weeks before departure, especially if your travel involves multiple-dose vaccines.
Can I get last-minute travel vaccinations?
Yes. While earlier is better, we prioritise key vaccines and can accommodate urgent bookings at Hodgson Pharmacy.
Are vaccines needed for travel to Thailand?
Yes. Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis are commonly recommended.
How do I book travel vaccinations near Dartford or Gravesend?
Visit Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, just a short drive away. Call us or book online via Google.