Before you pack your bags and jet off on your next adventure, it’s important to make sure your travel vaccinations are in order. Whether you’re travelling for business, a family holiday, or backpacking across Asia, staying protected from preventable diseases is one of the smartest steps you can take.
At Hodgson Pharmacy’s Travel Clinic in Longfield, near Dartford and Gravesend, our expert pharmacists can guide you through every step, from assessing your destination risks to administering the right vaccines quickly and safely.
This checklist will help you understand what you may need, when to book, and why visiting a travel clinic before your trip makes all the difference.
Why Travel Vaccinations Matter
Travelling exposes you to new environments, climates, and bacteria that your immune system may not recognise. Even a short trip can bring unexpected health risks. Vaccines provide a strong layer of protection against diseases that are rare in the UK but common in other regions.
Beyond personal protection, some vaccines are legally required for entry into certain countries, while others are strongly recommended to safeguard your health.
When to Get Your Vaccines
It’s best to schedule a travel health consultation at least 6–8 weeks before departure. Some vaccines need multiple doses over several weeks, while others can be given closer to your travel date.
If you’re travelling sooner, Hodgson Pharmacy offers last-minute appointments and same-day vaccinations to help you get protected quickly.
Your Essential Travel Vaccination Checklist
Below is a region-based overview of common vaccines recommended for UK travellers.
Asia (Including Thailand, India, and Southeast Asia)
- Hepatitis A – Spread through contaminated food and water.
- Typhoid – Common in areas with poor sanitation.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio (Td/IPV) – Recommended boosters before travel.
- Japanese Encephalitis – For extended stays or rural visits.
- Rabies – Important for backpackers, long-term travellers, or animal contact.
Note: Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries often recommend Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus boosters at a minimum.
Africa
- Yellow Fever – Required for many countries; proof of vaccination may be mandatory for entry.
- Hepatitis A and B – Common risk for travellers.
- Typhoid – Recommended for most destinations.
- Meningitis ACWY – Required for travel to certain African regions, particularly during outbreak seasons.
- Rabies – For rural travel or animal contact.
Hodgson Pharmacy provides Yellow Fever vaccination certificates, helping you meet all travel documentation requirements.
South America
- Yellow Fever – Required for many South American countries.
- Typhoid – Recommended due to food and water risks.
- Hepatitis A and B – Strongly advised for travellers.
- Rabies – Recommended for adventure or animal contact travel.
Even if not mandatory, vaccination protects you from severe illness in regions where medical facilities may be limited.
Central America and the Caribbean
- Hepatitis A – Spread through contaminated food or water.
- Typhoid – Common in less developed regions.
- Tetanus and Polio boosters – Recommended for all travellers.
- Rabies – Consider for rural or extended trips.
Other Travel Health Essentials
Vaccines aren’t the only part of travel health. Hodgson Pharmacy also offers:
- Malaria tablets and prevention advice
- Travel first aid and mosquito repellents
- Personalised travel health consultations based on your destination and medical history
- Printed vaccination records and certificates for border entry
Find us easily on Google Maps: Hodgson Pharmacy, Longfield
Why Choose Hodgson Pharmacy for Travel Health
- Convenient Longfield location – just minutes from Dartford and Gravesend
- Expert pharmacist-led consultations
- Wide range of vaccines in stock year-round
- Same-day and walk-in appointments available
- Certified Yellow Fever vaccination center
- Local, trusted service with professional aftercare
With Hodgson Pharmacy, you get the same expertise as a travel clinic, combined with the convenience and accessibility of your local pharmacy.
FAQs
Q: Do I need vaccines to travel to Asia?
Yes, vaccines like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus are commonly recommended for travellers heading to Asia, including Thailand and India.
Q: How far in advance should I get travel vaccinations?
Ideally, 6–8 weeks before your trip. However, Hodgson Pharmacy offers same-day and urgent appointments for last-minute travellers.
Q: Can I get all my vaccines in one visit?
In many cases, yes. Your pharmacist will help prioritise the most important vaccines based on your destination and travel date.
Q: Where can I get travel vaccinations near Dartford?
Hodgson Pharmacy’s Travel Clinic in Longfield offers full travel health services to residents of Dartford, Gravesend, and the surrounding areas.Q: Do I need to bring my vaccination history?
If available, yes – it helps determine which boosters or new vaccines you may need.