Sometimes the best trips are the spontaneous ones, a quick flight booking, bags packed, and off you go. But while your passport and itinerary might be ready, your travel health might not be. If you’re planning to visit destinations like Thailand, Africa, or South America, last-minute preparation shouldn’t mean skipping essential vaccines and travel medications.
At Hodgson Pharmacy’s Travel Clinic in Longfield, just minutes from Dartford and Gravesend, travellers can get expert travel health advice and many same-day vaccinations to help ensure a safe, healthy journey, no matter how soon you’re leaving.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Travel Vaccinations
Even with limited time before departure, vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent illness abroad. Some countries have strict entry requirements, while others carry risks of diseases that aren’t common in the UK.
Travel vaccines can protect against:
- Hepatitis A and B – Common in areas with contaminated food or water.
- Typhoid – Often spread through food and drink in parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio – Recommended boosters for global travellers.
- Yellow Fever – Mandatory for travel to certain African and South American countries.
- Rabies – Important for those spending time outdoors or with animals.
- Cholera and Japanese Encephalitis – For rural or extended stays in Asia.
At Hodgson Pharmacy, you can receive many of these vaccines on short notice, thanks to efficient consultations and a wide in-stock range.
How Fast Can You Get Vaccinated Before a Trip?
Ideally, travellers should get vaccinated 6–8 weeks before departure to build full immunity. However, many vaccines still provide valuable protection even when given closer to your travel date.
Hodgson Pharmacy’s Travel Clinic specialises in:
- Same-day appointments – For those flying out within days.
- Walk-in consultations – Quick assessments and on-the-spot vaccinations.
- Tailored guidance – If certain vaccines require multiple doses, the pharmacist will recommend which to prioritise.
Even a single dose before travel can help reduce your risk of serious illness.
Travel Health Services Beyond Vaccinations
Vaccines are only part of travel health. Hodgson Pharmacy also provides:
Malaria Prevention
Expert advice and prescriptions for malaria tablets based on your destination and trip length.
Destination-Specific Advice
Guidance on food and water safety, insect bite prevention, and managing altitude or heat exposure.
Health Essentials for Packing
Recommendations for first aid items, rehydration salts, and travel-sized medical supplies.
This full-service approach ensures you’re equipped for both expected and unexpected travel health needs.
Why Choose Hodgson Pharmacy for Last-Minute Travel Health?
- Convenient location: Based in Longfield, easily accessible from Dartford and Gravesend.
- Experienced pharmacists: Trained in travel medicine and vaccine administration.
- Wide vaccine availability: Common travel vaccines and boosters stocked year-round.
- Quick booking: Walk-ins and short-notice appointments available.
- Trusted local service: A reliable, approachable clinic offering professional care in your community.
Find us on Google Maps: Hodgson Pharmacy, Longfield
Common Destinations That Require Travel Vaccines
| Destination | Common Recommended Vaccines |
| Thailand & Southeast Asia | Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Japanese Encephalitis |
| Africa | Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A & B, Rabies |
| South America | Yellow Fever, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Rabies |
| India | Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Cholera, Rabies |
If you’re unsure which vaccines are required, your Hodgson pharmacist can assess your destination, length of stay, and planned activities to recommend the right protection.
FAQs
Q: Can I get travel vaccinations at short notice?
Yes, Hodgson Pharmacy offers same-day or next-day appointments for most vaccines. Some may require a follow-up dose later, but you can still receive initial protection before your trip.
Q: I’m leaving in less than a week – should I still get vaccinated?
Absolutely. Even partial protection is better than none. The pharmacist will prioritise vaccines most relevant to your destination and timeframe.
Q: Can I get malaria tablets without a GP appointment?
Yes. Hodgson Pharmacy provides malaria tablets after a quick consultation; no doctor’s appointment needed.
Q: Which travel vaccines are mandatory?
Some destinations, especially in Africa and South America, require a Yellow Fever certificate for entry. The travel pharmacist can confirm current regulations.
Q: Can I bring my vaccination records?
Yes, bringing your vaccination history helps ensure you receive only the vaccines you need.