Planning a trip abroad involves more than just booking flights and packing sunscreen—it’s about staying healthy too! At Aqua Travel Clinic in West Hampstead, London, we often get asked: “How long do travel vaccines last?” The answer depends on the vaccine, your destination, and your medical history. Let’s break it down simply.
Travel Vaccine Protection: A Quick Guide
1. Yellow Fever Vaccine
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How long it lasts: Lifetime protection for most people (no booster needed!).
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But wait: Some countries still ask for a booster after 10 years if you’re travelling from a risk zone. Always check entry rules!
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💡 Pro tip: Get your Yellow Fever jab at least 10 days before travel—it’s a requirement for many tropical destinations.
🔗 Learn more about Yellow Fever vaccination
2. Rabies Vaccine
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Pre-travel jabs (pre-exposure): A course of 3 doses protects for 1–3 years.
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After a bite: You’ll still need 2 emergency doses, but pre-travel vaccines buy you time to reach medical care.
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Boosters: Needed if you’re still at risk after 1–3 years (e.g., frequent travellers, volunteers).
🔗 Rabies vaccination details
3. Hepatitis A Vaccine
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Single dose: Protects for 1 year.
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Booster: A second dose (6–12 months later) gives 25+ years of protection.
4. Typhoid Vaccine
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Injectable vaccine: Lasts 3 years.
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Oral tablets: Protect for 1 year (requires 3 doses).
5. Japanese Encephalitis
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Two-dose course: Protects for 1–2 years.
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Booster: Recommended after 1–2 years for ongoing risk.
Why Does Vaccine Duration Matter?
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Last-minute trips: Some jabs (like Hepatitis A) work quickly, but others (e.g., Rabies) need weeks.
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Repeat travellers: Boosters save time and money for frequent adventurers.
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Entry requirements: Countries like Saudi Arabia (for Hajj) demand proof of recent vaccines.
FAQs
Q: Can I get multiple vaccines at once?
A: Yes! Most travel jabs can be given together. We’ll create a personalised schedule.
Q: Do kids need the same boosters as adults?
A: Generally yes, but doses may vary by age. We’ll advise based on your child’s needs.
Q: Are travel vaccines free on the NHS?
A: Some (like Hepatitis A) are NHS-funded, but most (like Yellow Fever) are private. We offer both!
Stay Protected with Aqua Travel Clinic
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Book Online: Fast appointments in West Hampstead, London.
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Get Expert Advice: We’ll review your itinerary and vaccine history.
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Travel Safely: Walk out with a clear plan (and your vaccination records!).
Don’t leave it to chance—vaccines expire, but your adventures shouldn’t!