Travelling to India can be an exciting adventure. The country offers amazing sights, food, and culture, but staying healthy on the journey matters as much as planning your itinerary. Health risks can differ from the UK, depending on where you go and what you do. The right vaccines help you travel with less worry and more enjoyment.
That’s where Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield comes in. As a trusted local pharmacy near Dartford, Gravesend, and Swanley, we offer a pharmacist-led travel clinic to help you understand which vaccines you need and arrange and administer them safely before your trip. We’ll guide you through each step so you can travel with confidence.
Why Travel Vaccines Are Important for India
India has health risks that can be different from the risks in the UK. You may face stomach illnesses from contaminated food or water, or illnesses carried by mosquitoes. Weather and sanitation can also vary by region. Vaccines are a simple, practical way to reduce these risks so you can enjoy the trip with more confidence. It’s about prevention and staying well, not about fear.
Routine Vaccines: What Should Be Up to Date Before You Travel
Before any trip, check that your routine vaccines are up to date. In the UK, this includes boosters for tetanus, diphtheria and polio, and vaccines such as measles, mumps and rubella (MMR). If you’re unsure what you’ve had, book a check with a travel clinic or your GP to review your records. You may already have protection you don’t realise.
Common Travel Vaccines Recommended for India
- Hepatitis A protects against a liver infection spread through contaminated food or water. For most travellers to India, Hepatitis A vaccination is advised.
- Typhoid protects against typhoid fever from contaminated food or water. This vaccine is commonly recommended, especially if you will eat street food or drink from sources that might not be fully safe.
- Hepatitis B protects against another liver infection spread through blood or bodily fluids. This may be advised for longer stays or if you might have medical procedures or close contact with others.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (whooping cough) boosters help keep you protected against these illnesses during your trip. It’s a routine protection that’s important for most travellers.
- Japanese Encephalitis may be suggested if you are staying in rural areas or plan long stays in zones where the virus is present. Your travel plans will determine this need.
- Rabies is something to consider if you will be in rural areas, work with animals, or spend a lot of time outdoors. A course may be advised for longer trips or high-risk activities.
- Cholera vaccines are available for some travellers, typically when there is a higher risk or an outbreak in specific areas. This is not routinely required for all travellers.
It is important to note that not every traveller needs every vaccine. Your personal plans, health, and travel dates influence the final recommendations you receive from a travel clinician.
Additional Vaccines That May Be Needed Depending on Your Trip
Where you go and what you do can change the advice. If you are visiting family or friends in India, staying in rural areas, travelling for a long time, or taking part in work or volunteering, you might need extra vaccines. A personalised check with a travel clinician is the safest way to get the right list for you. Relying on online lists alone can miss important factors like local outbreaks, season, and your own health history.
How Far in Advance Should You Get Travel Vaccines?
Ideally, arrange a travel health appointment several weeks before you leave. Some vaccines require more than one dose or time for protection to build, so planning ahead helps. If you are travelling soon, do not worry—our travel clinic can still review your plans, provide practical advice, and offer vaccines where possible. Early planning gives you the best protection.
Are Travel Vaccines Safe?
Vaccines go through strict testing and ongoing safety checks. Most people have only mild side effects, such as a sore arm or a slight fever. Serious reactions are very rare. A travel clinician will assess your health first, discuss any concerns, and tailor recommendations to you. Safety is the foundation of every vaccine decision.
What to Expect at a Travel Clinic Appointment
During your visit at Hodgson Pharmacy travel clinic, you will start with a discussion of your travel plans—where you’ll go, how long you’ll stay, and what you’ll be doing. A trained pharmacist will review your medical history and list any medicines you take. Based on this information, you will receive personalised vaccine recommendations and a clear plan with timing. You will have time to ask questions and express any worries. The appointment is designed to be calm, friendly and informative.
If you would like help planning your India trip safely, Hodgson Pharmacy can support you every step of the way. Our travel clinic in Longfield is here to explain options, answer questions and administer vaccines when appropriate so you can travel with confidence.