Travel Vaccinations

Chikungunya (IXCHIQ)

Chikungunya is a mosquito-transmitted virus found across tropical and subtropical regions—such as Sri Lanka, India and Mauritius. It often starts suddenly with fever and intense joint pain, and in some people the joint symptoms can persist for months or years.

Common symptoms (usually start 3–7 days after an infected mosquito bite):

• Sudden high fever
• Painful, swollen joints (often hands, ankles, knees; walking can be difficult)
• Headache and muscle aches
• Skin rash

If you develop these symptoms during or after travel, seek medical advice.

IXCHIQ® (chikungunya vaccine) is now available at Jenhams Clinic.

• Who it’s for: Adults 18–64 years

• Dosing: One intramuscular injection

The vaccine isn’t suitable for everyone—particularly some people with immunosuppression. Our travel health clinicians will review your medical history and advise whether it’s appropriate for you.

You may be advised to have the vaccine if you are:

• Travelling to areas with current or recurrent transmission (e.g., Sri Lanka, India, Mauritius)

• Staying for an extended period (around 6+ months) in higher-risk regions

• A laboratory worker or otherwise at risk of occupational exposure

Vaccination should be used alongside mosquito bite prevention measures.
Book a travel health consultation to discuss your personal risk and suitability.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Applicable Countries

• Africa
• Asia
• Australasia & Pacific
• Caribbean
• Central America
• South America

Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingestion of contaminated food and water with a bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. Most travellers will be at low risk of severe disease if they follow basic hand washing and food hygiene principles.

Why Vaccination is important

The cholera vaccine is not routinely recommended for most travellers; it's primarily advised for those visiting areas with ongoing cholera outbreaks or those with specific risk factors, such as aid workers or individuals with limited access to medical care. The cholera vaccine is an oral vaccine that helps your body develop immunity against the cholera bacteria. The vaccine is taken orally and helps your body develop immunity against the cholera bacteria. The course for adults involves two doses, which need to be taken a minimum of 7 days apart. You need to finish the course at least one week before travelling to be protected abroad. 

Side effects:

Serious side effects are rare. Common side effects include tummy upset and headache.

Travel:

Cholera is mainly found in Africa and Asia. Most travellers will be at low risk of severe disease if they follow basic hand washing and food hygiene principles.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral disease that is not usually serious and often resolves on its own. It is spread through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which are most active during daylight hours. While most people experience mild symptoms, a small percentage can develop severe dengue, a more serious and potentially life-threatening form of the disease.

Why the vaccination is important

The JCVI has recommended that the following groups could be offered the Qdenga® vaccine:

Individuals aged 4 years of age and older with confirmed dengue infection in the past who are planning to travel to areas where there is a risk of dengue infection or areas with an ongoing outbreak of dengue. It is also offered to anyone exposed to the dengue virus through their work, for example, laboratory staff working with the virus.

 The vaccine schedule is 2 injections 3 months apart. If it is not possible to complete the course prior to travel then one dose can be given and will provide approximately 81% protection against all serotypes of Dengue infection until the second dose is given.

Side effects: Common side effects include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle or joint pain. More severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare. 

Qdenga is contraindicated in:

• Pregnant women
• Breastfeeding women
• Immunocompromised individuals 
• Those with hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine
• Children under 4 years of age
• Individuals with no previous dengue infection should not currently be offered the Qdenga® vaccine in the UK. 

Travel: Dengue fever is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio

The DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio) vaccine is a combined vaccine that protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and polio. It's recommended as a booster dose for travel to regions where these diseases are more common or if it's been more than 10 years since your last vaccination. The vaccine is usually given 2-4 weeks before travel.

In the UK, a combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria, tetanus and polio(DTP) is routinely given to children, with a primary course of three doses at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, followed by boosters at around 3 years and between 13 to 18 years of age. Before travelling you should check if you need a booster dose.

Why Vaccination is Important:

Diphtheria is a serious, potentially life-threatening disease that is preventable through vaccination. The vaccine is highly effective and safe. 

Side Effects:

Most side effects are mild and include soreness or swelling at the injection site, slight fever, mild malaise, and drowsiness. Serious complications are very rare. 

Travel:

Travellers to areas with limited medical facilities may need booster doses. If you are travelling to an area where diphtheria is considered to be high risk, you may need a booster dose of the vaccine every 10 years. Tetanus is found worldwide, but it's more common in areas with limited access to medical facilities. Anyone who has not completed the British vaccination schedule, or has not had a booster dose in the last 10 years, will require a booster dose.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that can cause liver inflammation and is spread through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is the best way to prevent it, especially for travellers to areas where hepatitis A is common. 

Why Vaccination is important:

UK guidelines recommend vaccination for travellers to countries where hepatitis A is common, or for those at higher risk due to their work, lifestyle, or underlying medical conditions. Hepatitis A can cause mild to severe symptoms, including fever and digestive issues. It can cause complications such as liver failure.

Side effects:

Side effects can include a high temperature, feeling tired and soreness at the injection site.

Travel:

For travel to areas with high hepatitis A prevalence, a vaccine is recommended, ideally given at least two weeks before departure, but it can be given up to the day of travel.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can cause liver inflammation and is spread through blood and contaminated needles. Hepatitis B can cause a range of flu like symptoms as well as jaundice. It can become chronic and lead to liver damage and failure.

Why Vaccination is important:

Hepatitis B is spread through blood and body fluids, and some activities during travel, like medical procedures or contact sports, can increase your risk.  In order to complete the full course in time, you need to get the first dose at least one month before travel. The course consists of three doses. The second injection is given four weeks after the first, and the third injection should be given five months later (completing the course in six months).

Hepatitis B is more common in certain parts of the world, including parts of Africa, Asia, and South and Central America. If you're planning a long-term trip or are likely to need medical care abroad, vaccination is particularly important. If you are a healthcare worker or medical professional, you are at a higher risk of exposure to the virus. 

Side effects:

Possible side effects include soreness at the injection site and tiredness.

Travel:

Hepatitis B is more common in certain parts of the world, including parts of Africa, Asia, and South and Central America. If you're planning a long-term trip or are likely to need medical care abroad, vaccination is particularly important. If you are a healthcare worker or medical professional, you are at a higher risk of exposure to the virus. 

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, primarily in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. While many infections are mild or asymptomatic, in some cases, it can cause serious neurological complications like encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) leading to symptoms like fever, headache, confusion, and seizures.

Why the vaccination is important

The vaccine, Ixiaro, is an inactivated vaccine that protects against Japanese encephalitis. It is recommended for individuals at increased risk of exposure, such as those traveling to endemic areas or those with ongoing risk. The vaccine is administered in two doses, with a booster recommended after one year for those at ongoing risk. It introduces the body to a weakened form of the virus, which triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, protecting against future infection. 

Side effects: Common side effects include mild fever, headache, and injection site reactions.

Travel: The disease is endemic in parts of Asia, Australasia and the Pacific.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Malaria

Malaria prophylaxis, or the prevention of malaria, involves a combination of medication and mosquito bite prevention measures. Antimalarial drugs, such as atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone), doxycycline, and mefloquine, are commonly prescribed for travelers to malaria-endemic areas. In addition to medication, avoiding mosquito bites is crucial and can be achieved through measures like wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and sleeping under mosquito nets. Please see our website for a list of approved Travel Kits and Accessories.

Antimalarial Medications:

• Atovaquone-proguanil (Malarone):

This fixed combination drug is effective against chloroquine-resistant malaria and is typically started 1-2 days before travel and taken daily for 7 days after leaving the endemic area.

• Doxycycline:

Doxycycline is another effective antimalarial drug that can be used for malaria prophylaxis. It's usually taken daily, starting 1-2 days before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area.

• Mefloquine (Lariam):

Mefloquine is an alternative antimalarial drug, but its use is limited in some areas due to drug resistance. It's often taken weekly, starting 2-3 weeks before travel and continuing for 4 weeks after leaving the endemic area.

• Chloroquine:

While chloroquine was once widely used, it's no longer recommended in many areas due to drug resistance. It is available over-the-counter.

2. Mosquito Bite Prevention:

• Avoidance: The most effective way to prevent malaria is to avoid mosquito bites.

• Clothing: Wearing long sleeves and pants can help protect against mosquito bites, especially during peak mosquito activity (dawn and dusk).

• Insect Repellents: Using insect repellents containing DEET (diethyltoluamide) or picaridin can help deter mosquitoes.

• Mosquito Nets: Using mosquito nets, especially treated with permethrin, can provide an extra layer of protection while sleeping.

• Environmental Measures: Reducing mosquito breeding sites, such as stagnant water, can also help.

Factors Affecting Prophylaxis Choice:

• Malaria Risk:

The level of malaria risk in the destination area will influence the choice of antimalarial drugs and the duration of prophylaxis.

• Drug Resistance:

Drug resistance in specific areas can impact the effectiveness of certain antimalarials, so it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for the most appropriate recommendation.

• Individual Factors:

Factors like age, health conditions, and potential drug interactions can also influence the choice of prophylaxis.

• Pregnancy:

Antimalarial drugs may not be safe for pregnant women, so alternative measures, such as mosquito bite prevention, are recommended.

Important Considerations:

• Consult a Healthcare Professional:

It's essential to consult with a doctor or travel clinic before traveling to a malaria-endemic area to discuss prophylaxis options and determine the most appropriate approach.

• Follow Instructions Carefully:

Strict adherence to the prescribed medication regimen and mosquito bite prevention measures is crucial for effective malaria prevention.

• Seek Medical Attention:

If symptoms of malaria develop (fever, headache, chills, fatigue), seek prompt medical attention.

If you are planning to travel to a malaria-endemic area, please consult with us for personalized advice on malaria prophylaxis.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Meningitis

Meningococcal disease is a serious infection that can cause meningitis and in some cases septicaemia or both. It is transmitted by droplet/aerosol spread, for example coughing or sneezing from an infected person.

It occurs worldwide. In the meningitis belt of Sub-Saharan Africa the incidence rises sharply towards the end of the dry season, when disease spreads rapidly.

Why the vaccination is important

Meningococcal meningitis and sepsis can be life-threatening and cause serious complications like limb loss, hearing loss, and brain damage. The MenACWY vaccine protects against four types of Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcal) bacteria that cause meningitis and sepsis: groups A, C, W, and Y. It's a crucial vaccination for teenagers and young adults, and is part of the routine vaccination schedule in the UK, particularly for those in year 11 (around age 14).

Side effects

Common side effects include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, as well as headache, fever, and fatigue. More serious side effects are rare.

Travel

Travellers attending the Hajj in Saudi Arabia will need to present a valid certificate of vaccination against Meningitis ACWY. The incidence rises sharply towards the end of the dry season in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Pertiussis (Whooping Cough)

Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It is usually transmitted via the respiratory route and starts with non-specific catarrhal (‘common cold’) symptoms. Typically, an intermittent uncontrollable cough then develops, causing spasms. Coughing fits, may end with an inspiratory whoop and vomiting. Young infants do not always develop a ‘whoop’ following the coughing spasms, but may instead experience difficulty breathing or even stop breathing for a short time.

Why the vaccination is important

The pertussis vaccine, also known as the whooping cough vaccine, is a crucial part of the childhood vaccination schedule in the UK. Additionally, pregnant women are offered a pertussis vaccine to protect their baby before they are old enough to be vaccinated themselves.

Side effects

Pain, redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site are not unusual.

Headache, fatigue, fever (usually mild) and nausea, may also occur.

Pain, redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site are common.

Systemic reactions: Headache, fatigue, fever (usually mild), nausea, and vomiting may also occur.

Travel

Recently there have been outbreaks of Whooping Cough in Australia and the USA.  Travellers have become concerned about the risk of contracting whooping cough themselves, or infecting young grandchildren they are visiting who may not be vaccinated. The Department of Health advise travellers wishing to be immunised should arrange vaccination at their destination. For those that wish to be vaccinated before their trip we can offer this as a combined Low dose Diphtheria/Tetanus/Polio/Pertussis vaccination following a detailed risk assessment.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Rabies

Rabies is a rare but serious infection that's usually caught from a bite or scratch of an infected animal. It's almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but vaccination and early treatment can prevent it. Rabies is spread by mammals, such as dogs, bats, raccoons and foxes and you can get rabies if you're bitten or scratched or licked by an infected animal.

Why Vaccination is Important

The rabies vaccine is a crucial preventative measure, especially for those traveling to areas where rabies is prevalent or for individuals at occupational risk. It is administered as a series of injections and can also be used in post-exposure situations. The vaccine is highly effective, but it's important to complete the full course of vaccinations and seek prompt medical attention after potential exposure. The type of vaccine may sometimes vary but typically, a primary course involves three doses over 21 or 28 days, or a shorter, more rapid schedule if time is limited. The vaccine is given as an intramuscular injection into the upper arm. 

Travellers to areas where rabies is common, especially those with limited healthcare access, those likely to encounter animals, or those staying for extended periods. Also recommended for healthcare workers and animal handlers. 

Side effects: Redness, swelling, and soreness at the injection site are common. Mild fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting can occur. 

Travel: Rabies is found worldwide but it's very rare in the UK. Although the risk of getting it while travelling is small, rabies is more common in parts of Asia, Africa, Central and South America.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is an infection caused by a parasitic worm that lives in fresh water in subtropical and tropical regions. The parasite is most commonly found throughout Africa, but also lives in parts of South America. You often don't have any symptoms when you first become infected with schistosomiasis, but the parasite can remain in the body for many years and cause damage to organs such as the bladder, kidneys and liver. You can become infected if you come into contact with contaminated water – for example, when paddling, swimming or washing – and the tiny worms burrow into your skin.

Symptoms of schistosomiasis

Many people with schistosomiasis don't have any symptoms, or don't experience any for several months or even years, although occasionally people get small, itchy red bumps on their skin for a few days where the worms burrowed in.

After a few weeks, some people develop a high temperature (fever), an itchy, red, blotchy and raised rash, a cough, diarrhoea, muscle and joint and abdominal pain and a general sense of feeling unwell.

Preventing Schistosomiasis

Avoid Contact with Freshwater:

Do not swim, wade, or bathe in freshwater in areas where schistosomiasis is common. Avoid activities that involve direct water contact, such as paddling, diving, snorkelling, rafting, canoeing, and water sports. Even if you're not swimming, avoid any contact with freshwater, as the parasite can penetrate the skin through even small openings.

Drink Safe Water:

Drink only bottled, filtered, or boiled water. Boiling water for at least 1 minute will kill any parasites. Fine-mesh filters can also help remove cercariae (parasite larvae) from water.

Water for Bathing:

Boil bath water before use. Add 1 mg of chlorine per litre of water and let it sit for 30 minutes before using. Alternatively, allow water to stand for at least 24 hours before bathing.

Please see our website for a list of approved Travel Kits and Accessories.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Tetanus

In the UK, a combined vaccination that protects against diphtheria, polio, and tetanus (DTP) is routinely given to children. If you're traveling to areas where medical attention may not be readily accessible, a booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine (Td/IPV) is recommended if your last dose was more than 10 years ago, even if you've had a full five-dose course previously. 

Why Vaccination is important: 

The bacteria that causes tetanus is present in soil worldwide and disease occurs when the bacteria gets into a wound or even small cut. This booster is a precautionary measure in case immunoglobulin (if recommended) is not available to the individual in the event of a tetanus-prone injury overseas. 

Side Effects:

Most side effects are mild and include soreness or swelling at the injection site, slight fever, mild malaise, mild fever, headache and drowsiness. Serious complications are very rare. 

Travel:

Travellers to areas where diphtheria is more common may need booster doses. If you are travelling to an area where diphtheria is considered to be high risk, you may need a booster dose of the vaccine every 10 years. 

Even with vaccination, be aware of the risk of tetanus, which is contracted through puncture wounds, burns, and intravenous drug use, and take necessary precautions. 

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Tick-Bourne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection primarily transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. While many people experience mild or no symptoms, TBE can, in rare cases, lead to more serious neurological issues, potentially causing meningitis or encephalitis. The virus is a flavivirus, similar to those that cause yellow fever and dengue.

Many people experience no symptoms at all. For those who do, early symptoms are often flu-like, including fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and nausea. If the infection spreads to the central nervous system, more severe symptoms can develop, such as confusion, difficulty speaking, loss of coordination, and muscle weakness.

Why the vaccination is important

The Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine, known as Ticovac and Ticovac Junior (for children), is an inactivated vaccine that provides protection against TBE virus. It's available in the UK and recommended for those at risk of exposure, such as travellers to endemic areas, those working outdoors in forested regions, and laboratory workers.

You need two doses to be protected and you need to have received the second dose two weeks before travel. You should get the first dose at least two months before travel – the earlier, the better.

Side effects

The vaccine can cause mild side effects, such as tiredness, nausea and headache.

Travel

Recommended for travel in parts of Asia and Europe

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Typhoid

Typhoid  is a bacterial infection, spread by consuming contaminated food and water. This can lead to a high temperature, headaches constipation or diarrhoea, which if untreated can be fatal.

Why the Vaccination is important

Vaccination is recommended for travellers to high risk areas with poor sanitation, or for travellers who will be unable to maintain good food, water and personal hygiene. Highly recommended for those visiting or staying with local population. Two main types of typhoid vaccines are available in the UK: a single injection (TYPHIM Vi) and three oral capsules (Vivotif) taken every other day. Both vaccines offer protection for up to three years, but booster shots are recommended every three years if continued risk exists.

Side effects

Side effects of the vaccine can include fever, soreness at the injection site and digestive problems.

Travel:

The majority of global cases of disease occur in Asia, but the disease continues to be a concern in other areas including Africa and parts of Central and South America.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes, and vaccination is highly recommended for travellers to areas with a risk of transmission. Yellow fever causes flu like symptoms high fever, chills, headache, muscle pain (especially back pain), loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms typically appear 3 to 6 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. In many cases, symptoms improve after 3-4 days, and patients may recover but in more severe cases the infection can progress to cause bleeding, jaundice and organ failure.

Why Vaccination is important:

You need to have the yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you travel to allow time for the vaccine to work. Yellow fever is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes, and vaccination is highly recommended for travellers to areas with a risk of transmission. Yellow fever is found in some areas of tropical Africa and Central and South America. You need to have the yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you travel to allow time for the vaccine to work. Yellow fever is a serious disease spread by mosquitoes, and vaccination is highly recommended for travellers to areas with a risk of transmission.

Side effects:

Serious side effects from the yellow fever vaccine are rare. Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, headache and pain.

Travel:

Yellow fever is found in some areas of tropical Africa and Central and South America. You need to have the yellow fever vaccination at least 10 days before you travel to allow time for the vaccine to work. The International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) is the proof of vaccination and is required by some countries for entry, especially if you are traveling from a country where yellow fever is present.

Please see our pricing page for the latest information on required doses and vaccination cost.