Before you travel check all your routine immunisations are up to date
Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect against some diseases, like diphtheria, measles and polio.
Diphtheria, rubella and polio are now uncommon in the UK, thanks to the success of the routine UK vaccination programme; but they are still reported in parts of the world where vaccines are in short supply or unavailable. International travellers who are not up to date with their vaccinations are at risk of catching these serious infections. Before travelling abroad, check you and your family are up to date with all routine vaccines recommended in the UK.
The UK and many European countries have reported increasing rates of pertussis (whooping cough) and measles, mainly because of falling vaccination rates. Vaccination against pertussis and measles is offered as part of the UK routine vaccination schedule. The UK Health Security Agency encourage everyone to check they are up to date with routine vaccines appropriate for their age and circumstances.
Check you and your family are up to date with your routine vaccine courses and boosters before you travel. Pregnant women from 16 weeks gestation are reminded to ensure they have a booster of pertussis vaccine. If you are not sure about routine UK vaccines, check with your GP practice or travel clinic.
In the UK routine courses of vaccines are available free of charge, although access to vaccination can be quicker through a private travel clinic.
For more details visit https://nathnac.net/ in England/Wales or https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home for Scotland