Holidays are exciting and something the whole family can look forward to. However, while travelling is fun, it can also expose you to illnesses that aren’t common at home. The last thing anyone wants is to fall ill with a potentially serious disease while abroad. That’s why it’s important to prepare your health before you travel by getting the right vaccinations and expert advice. Prioritising your health beforehand can help you avoid unexpected setbacks during your trip.
Whether you’re travelling to India, Thailand, Africa or elsewhere, Blackpool Express Chemist is here to support your travel plans with essential vaccinations and personalised travel health advice tailored to your destination. This blog will explain why travel vaccinations matter, what you need to know to stay safe, and how we can help you get ready for your journey.
What are travel vaccinations
Travel vaccinations are vaccines that are needed or recommended when visiting certain countries. They help protect you from infectious diseases that may be more common or pose a higher risk in the area you are travelling to.
These vaccines are developed through years of rigorous research, clinical trials, and monitoring by global health organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO). They are well-established and proven to be safe and effective in preventing serious illnesses.
Vaccines work by stimulating your immune system to recognise and fight specific infections without causing the disease itself. This preparation helps your body respond quickly if you are exposed to the actual virus or bacteria during your travels.
For example, parts of sub-Saharan Africa carry a higher risk of yellow fever. This is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. It may begin with mild symptoms but can become severe if left untreated. The yellow fever vaccine protects you against this risk before you travel.
Travel vaccinations are especially important if you are staying in rural areas or venturing off the usual tourist paths, where healthcare access may be limited. They protect your health while travelling and also reduce the chance of spreading infections to others when you return home.
Why are travel vaccinations necessary
Travellers can be exposed to serious diseases while abroad, particularly in regions where certain infections are more common than in the UK. Without proper vaccination, the risk of falling ill rises significantly not only for the traveller but also for the people they come into contact with during and after their trip. This means unvaccinated travellers may unintentionally spread infections to family, friends, or local communities, increasing the chance of outbreaks. Some of these diseases can cause severe complications if left unprevented, making vaccination an essential part of travel health preparation.
Here are a few common diseases and what they do:
Yellow fever
Parts of sub-Saharan Africa carry a higher risk of yellow fever. This is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. It may begin with mild symptoms but can quickly become severe if left untreated. A yellow fever vaccine offers reliable protection and is often required for entry into certain countries.
Meningitis B
Meningococcal group B (MenB) is a type of bacteria that can cause life-threatening infections such as meningitis (inflammation of the brain lining) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). The bacteria are spread through close contact like coughing, sneezing, kissing or extended exposure in shared spaces. A meningitis B vaccine is available to protect against this infection and is recommended for travellers to certain areas or those at higher risk.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. It is common in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. Many people do not show symptoms, but in severe cases, it can lead to brain inflammation and long-term complications. A vaccine is available to protect travellers to high-risk areas from Japanese encephalitis.
If you’re unsure which vaccines you might need for your trip, view our full list of travel vaccinations or speak to our pharmacy team for personalised advice.
When should you get your travel vaccines?
It’s important to plan ahead when organising your travel vaccinations. Most vaccines take time to become fully effective because they work by gradually helping your body build immunity to a specific disease. Some vaccines also require multiple doses given weeks or even months apart.
Ideally, you should book your travel vaccinations at least four to six weeks before your departure date. This gives your body enough time to respond to the vaccine and ensures you are protected before you travel. However, different vaccines have different schedules, so it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional early to make sure you stay on track.
If you need advice or want to book your vaccinations, contact us today.
Safety and Side Effects
Travel vaccines are generally safe and well tolerated. Most people experience no serious problems after their appointment. However, as with any vaccine, some mild side effects are possible as your immune system starts building protection.
Common side effects may include:
- A heavy or sore feeling in the arm
- Mild rashes
- Muscle aches
- Headache
These effects are usually short-lived and clear up on their own within a few days. If you experience anything that feels unusual or more severe, it’s best to contact a healthcare professional for advice. It’s always worth asking, even if you’re unsure. Side effects can vary depending on the vaccine, and we’ll talk you through what to expect during your consultation so you feel fully informed before your trip.
Where to get vaccinated
is experienced, reliable, and able to offer clear, professional advice. At Blackpool Express Chemist, our team specialises in travel health and vaccinations, so you can feel confident you’re in safe hands. We understand that travel plans can change at short notice, which is why we offer same-day and last-minute appointments. Our private service means no long waits typical of GP surgeries, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
Here’s what one of our customers had to say:“I had a couple of travel vaccines done, the man that did them was very polite, also didn’t take long at all. Would highly recommend this place.”
How to book your travel vaccines at Blackpool Express Chemist
Booking your travel vaccinations at Blackpool Express Chemist is quick and easy. Simply use our online booking form to choose your preferred date, select your destination, and indicate which vaccinations you require. Then, pick a time slot that suits you best.
When you arrive, our trained pharmacists will provide tailored advice based on your destination and itinerary. They will review your medical history and current health to recommend the most suitable vaccines for your trip. Whether you’re travelling for a few days or a few months, staying protected is key. Vaccination is not only important for your own health, but also for your family, including young children.
If you’re unsure which vaccines you need or the timing of your doses, just give us a call. Even if you’ve missed your scheduled vaccinations, we can help sort it out and book you in.
