Vaccinations
Hi, we have just been to discuss our vaccinations and were recommended to have:
Hepatitis A, Tetanus (which comes as a 3-in-1 vaccine and includes diphtheria, tetanus and polio) and Typhoid all free on our NHS system (typhoid mainly because it was free and would not hurt to have this) - so we’ve had these today.
They pointed us in the direction of the Fit For Travel website (
www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations.aspx) and suggested we speak to our Insurers to see if they have any conditions in relation to having specific vaccinations before travel.
We have to consider whether we also need: Japanese Encephalitis, Tick Borne Encephalitis, Hepatitis B, Cholera and Rabies, a quick look would suggest we won’t need these.
Japanese Encephalitis: spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. This mosquito breeds in rice paddies and mainly bites between dusk and dawn. Risk is higher for long stay travellers to rural areas, particularly if unable to avoid mosquito bites
Cholera: spread through consumption of contaminated water and food. More common during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water. It would be unusual for travelers to contract cholera if they take basic precautions with food and water and maintain a good standard of hygiene.
Hepatitis B: spread through infected blood and blood products, contaminated needles and medical instruments and sexual intercourse. Risk is higher for those at occupational risk, long stays or frequent travel, children (exposed through cuts and scratches) and individuals who may need, or request, surgical procedures abroad.
Tick-borne Encephalitis: spread mainly through the bite of an infected tick. Risk is higher during the warmer months, for those exposed outside in forests, woods, and grassy areas (eg forestry workers, campers, hikers).
Rabies: spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually through a bite, scratch or lick on broken skin. Particularly dogs and related species, but also bats. Risk is higher for those going to remote areas (who may not be able to promptly access appropriate treatment in the event of a bite), long stays, those at higher risk of contact with animals and bats, and children. Even when pre-exposure vaccine has been received, urgent medical advice should be sought after any animal or bat bite.
Hope this is of some help.
Ian & Diane