Travel Vaccines
Vaccines ideally need to be given at least 6 – 8 weeks before departure if possible. Vaccines need time to take effect and some may require a course over several weeks.
Travel FAQ’s
Question:
“How can I find out what vaccines I have had previously?”
Answer:
You can locate your vaccine record through your NHS App OR you can request for Balham Park Surgery staff to send you a copy of the vaccines we have recorded on our system.
Question:
“Can I find out what vaccines I need prior to my appointment?”
Answer:
The nurse will review this during your travel consult appointment as it depends on the type of travel you will be doing. Your appointment will include both a consult to decide what vaccines are needed and the administration of any vaccines. You can consult the Travel Health Pro website prior to your appointment to get an idea of what you might need. https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/
Question:
“What vaccines are covered by the NHS?”
Answer:
Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Tetanus vaccines are covered by the NHS
Yellow Fever, Hepatitis B, and Meningitis vaccines are offered at Balham Park Surgery but not provided free.
We do not currently offer vaccination against Rabies or Japanese Encephalitis.
Question:
“How much will vaccines cost at Balham Park Surgery”
Answer:
Tetanus, diphtheria, polio: No charge
Hep A: No charge
Hep A/B combined: No charge
Typhoid: No charge
Yellow fever: £65/dose
Meningitis ACWY: £65
Hep B: £35/dose or £105 for 3 doses
Malaria Tablets: Private prescription charge of £20
Question:
“Do I need a prescription for malaria tablets?”
Answer:
Most adults will find it easier and cheaper to buy malaria tablets directly from the pharmacy. Many pharmacies, including Boots, will do a consultation and sell the tablets needed. You should call your pharmacy in advance to make sure they offer this service. For children, you will need to obtain a private prescription. Please book a travel appointment with a nurse to obtain this prescription.
Question:
“Are my previous vaccines still valid?”
Answer:
Below is a basic guide and recommendations may vary based on individual patient circumstances. Please book in with a nurse for a travel consultation if you have any questions about your specific case.
You will need a booster dose for:
Yellow Fever – 1 dose only required for life
Typhoid – Every 3 years
Tetanus – Every 10 years
Hep A – 1 dose will provide protection for 1 year, a 2nd dose will provide 25-year protection
Hep B – At least 3 doses required
Rabies – At least 3 doses required
Question:
“Can I bring family members along to my travel appointment if we are all going on the same trip?
Answer:
No. Please book a separate travel consult appoint for each member of the family that is traveling. This will insure that the nurse has time to adequately review each person’s risk.
Travel Vaccines
Vaccines ideally need to be given at least 6 – 8 weeks before departure if possible. Vaccines need time to take effect and some may require a course over several weeks.
Further Information
The following websites will give you additional travel advice.