How Long Do Travel Vaccinations Provide Protection?

Travelling to new and exciting destinations opens doors to unforgettable experiences and memories but it also means facing potential health risks. That's where travel vaccinations come in. These vaccines protect you from getting sick when you're away from home.

They work by boosting your body's defence system against diseases that might be present in different parts of the world. And that's why understanding how long these vaccinations keep you safe is important. So, before you pack your bags and head off on your next trip, let's discuss the need for travel vaccinations and find out just how long they can keep you protected.

How Long Do Travel Vaccinations Provide Protection?

Understanding the duration of protection offered by travel vaccinations is crucial for planning your itinerary and ensuring optimal health during your travels. Let's understand the specifics of each vaccine and their respective durations of protection-

1.    Cholera Vaccination

The cholera vaccine is typically administered as a drink in two separate doses, 1 to 6 weeks apart, with a third dose recommended for children aged 2 to 6 years old. Protection from cholera lasts for 5 years or less, although occasional booster doses may be necessary, especially for people revisiting high-risk areas.

2.    Diphtheria Vaccination

Routine vaccination against diphtheria, along with polio and tetanus, is recommended for all children in the UK. Booster doses are advised for people travelling to regions where diphtheria is prevalent, especially if their last vaccination was more than 10 years ago.

3.    Hepatitis A Vaccination

The hepatitis A vaccine typically consists of two doses, offering protection for at least 25 years. Combined vaccines against hepatitis A and hepatitis B or typhoid are also available for comprehensive protection.

4.    Hepatitis B Vaccination

The hepatitis B vaccine involves a course of three injections, providing long-lasting immunity against the virus. Combined vaccines may be administered for people at risk of multiple infections during travel and it lasts for a lifetime.

5.    Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination

Vaccination against Japanese encephalitis usually requires two injections, with the second dose administered 28 days after the first. This vaccine offers protection for people planning extended stays in high-risk areas and lasts for 5 years or less.

6.    Meningococcal Meningitis Vaccination

Vaccination against meningococcal meningitis is crucial for travellers visiting high-risk areas, such as parts of Africa and Saudi Arabia during mass gatherings. The MenACWY vaccine provides effective protection with a single injection for 5 years or less, supplemented by booster doses if necessary.

7.    Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccination

Routine vaccination with the MMR vaccine ensures protection against measles, mumps, and rubella and lasts for a lifetime. Two doses are typically administered, with flexibility in dosing intervals for people requiring catch-up vaccinations.

8.    Polio Vaccination

Routine polio vaccination is essential, with booster doses recommended for travellers visiting regions where polio remains a concern and this vaccine lasts for a lifetime.

9.    Rabies Vaccination

Vaccination against rabies involves a course of three injections, offering protection for travellers at risk of exposure to the virus, and this vaccine lasts for a lifetime. Emergency treatment may be required for people bitten or scratched by animals in rabies-endemic areas.

10. Tetanus Vaccination

Booster doses of the tetanus vaccine are advised for travellers visiting areas with limited access to medical services, especially if their last vaccination was more than 10 years ago.

11. Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccination

The tick-borne encephalitis vaccine necessitates a course of three injections, with booster doses recommended every 3 years for continued protection.

12. Tuberculosis (TB) Vaccination

The BCG vaccine protects against tuberculosis and is recommended for travellers at increased risk of TB exposure in endemic regions.

13. Typhoid Vaccination

Vaccination against typhoid fever involves either a single injection or a course of three capsules, providing protection against this bacterial infection for travellers in high-risk areas and lasts for 5 years or less.

14. Yellow Fever Vaccination

Yellow fever vaccination offers lifelong protection with a single dose, ensuring travellers' safety in regions where the virus is prevalent.

Visit Your Nearby Pearl Chemist Branch for Travel Vaccinations

As you plan your next adventure, prioritise your health by staying informed about the travel vaccinations required for your destination. Knowing how long each vaccine protects you helps you plan your trip with confidence. By staying informed and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy your journey without worrying about health risks.

Protect yourself with vaccines will ensure a safe and memorable travel experience. So, make sure to visit our travel clinic in Merton, Morden, Streatham, Tolworth, Tooting or your nearby location for proper preparation, so you can explore the world worry-free and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.