Planning an international trip from Surrey? Ensure you stay healthy abroad with the right travel vaccinations and expert advice. Surrey Travel Clinics – with convenient branches in Horton (Epsom, KT19 8HJ) and Oxshott (Leatherhead, KT22 0JP) – are your trusted local providers for all travel health needs.

In this guide, we’ll mirror the approach of our Woolwich clinic’s travel health pillar post, offering comprehensive travel vaccine advice and strong local insights. From why travel vaccines are important and when to get them, to a breakdown of major travel diseases and vaccines, and tailored tips for destinations in Africa, Asia, South America, Central America, Europe, and the Middle East, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn how to travel safely and confidently – and discover why Surrey Travel Clinics (Horton & Oxshott) are top-rated for keeping Surrey travellers healthy abroad.

Why Travel Vaccines Are Essential (and When to Get Them)

Traveling exposes you to illnesses that are rare or nonexistent at home. Diseases like yellow fever, typhoid, or Japanese encephalitis can be a serious threat in certain countries, and some (such as yellow fever) are not found in the UK at all. Getting vaccinated before your trip is crucial for your safety – these vaccines prime your immune system to fight off infections you might encounter abroad, preventing potentially severe illness or even life-threatening conditions.

When should you get travel vaccines? Health experts recommend planning your vaccinations well in advance of your departure. Ideally, visit a travel clinic 6–8 weeks before you travel so that any vaccines have time to take full effect​fitfortravel.nhs.uk. This lead time ensures you complete multi-dose vaccine courses (if needed) and achieve immunity. However, it’s never too late to seek travel health advice – even if you’re leaving in a few days, a consultation can still be beneficial. Our Surrey Travel Clinics accommodate last-minute travellers whenever possible.

Travel vaccines aren’t just about personal health – they can be legally required for entry into certain countries. For example, many countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South America require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination on entry, documented on an official International Certificate. Saudi Arabia mandates a Meningitis ACWY vaccination certificate for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims​nhs.uk. Even where not required by law, recommended vaccines (like Hepatitis A or Typhoid) are highly advisable to avoid spending your holiday sick. In short, travel immunisations protect both your health and your travel plans – preventing diseases that could derail your trip or be brought back home.

Beyond vaccines, a travel health risk assessment is wise for every trip. Factors like your destination, length of stay, activities, and personal health determine what precautions you need​fitfortravel.nhs.uk. Our clinicians stay updated with the latest NHS and Fit for Travel guidelines (the NHS’s travel health resource) to give you up-to-date advice. (For general information, you can also refer to NHS travel vaccination advice and the NHS FitforTravel site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.) However, online resources are no substitute for a personalized consultation – that’s where our Surrey Travel Clinics come in.

Surrey Travel Clinics (Horton & Oxshott): Trusted Local Travel Health Experts

When it comes to travel health in Surrey, Surrey Travel Clinics (operated through our Horton and Oxshott Pharmacies) stand out as a top choice. We pride ourselves on offering expertise, professionalism, and a friendly service to the community. Here’s why hundreds of travellers from Epsom, Oxshott, and beyond trust us with their pre-travel healthcare:

• Experienced Pharmacist Clinicians: Our clinics are run by highly qualified pharmacists with specialized training in travel medicine. With over a decade of experience and NHS pharmacy certification, we ensure safe, evidence-based care. We’re an NHS-registered vaccination centre, including being a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre, so you know you’re in capable hands for even the more exotic jabs.
  
  

• Comprehensive Services: We provide end-to-end travel health support – from all necessary travel vaccinations to malaria prevention tablets, advice on avoiding mosquito bites, managing altitude sickness, and traveler’s diarrhoea kits. Whether you need a quick typhoid booster or a full consultation for a round-the-world trip, our team can help. We also tailor our advice to your itinerary, ensuring you get only the vaccines you need for the specific regions and activities on your trip.
  
  

• Convenient Locations & Hours: Both our Epsom travel clinic (Horton Pharmacy) and Oxshott travel clinic (Oxshott Pharmacy) are easily accessible to Surrey residents. Horton Pharmacy is located at Horton Local Centre, Pelman Way in Epsom, while Oxshott Pharmacy is on Oxshott High Street (Braeside House, Leatherhead). Opening hours are convenient for working professionals and families alike – Monday to Friday: 9am–6pm; Saturday: 9am–1pm; Sunday: Closed at both branches. This means you can schedule appointments after work or on Saturday mornings. (Same-day appointments are often available, and we offer late afternoon slots for busy commuters.)
  
  

• Friendly, Professional Team: Our 5-star rated staff truly care about your wellbeing. We take time to listen to your concerns, answer questions, and explain recommendations in plain language. Getting shots can make anyone nervous, but our clinicians’ gentle approach and expertise will put you at ease. We maintain the highest standards of hygiene and patient safety in our modern consultation rooms, so you’ll receive care in a clean, comfortable environment.

What Our Patients Say – 5-Star Reviews

Nothing speaks louder than the feedback from our patients. Surrey Travel Clinics are proud to have a 4.9/5 rating with over 270 reviews, and we’re grateful for the kind words from the community. Here are a few snippets from recent travellers who visited our Horton and Oxshott clinics:

• “Exceptional service! The staff were friendly and very knowledgeable – they answered all my questions and made the whole process easy. I feel much more confident about my trip now.” – Sofia
  

• “I got my jabs for Africa here. Professional and efficient from start to finish. The pharmacist explained each vaccine and any side effects. Excellent care – highly recommend!” – Ellie
  

• “Super helpful and patient with us, even with all our last-minute vaccines. The team really cares about their patients. Five-star treatment indeed.” – Emily
  

• “Great experience at Surrey Travel Clinics. Friendly staff and expert advice – they ensured I had everything I needed for my Southeast Asia trip. Will definitely use them again for future travel!” – Olivia
  

• “I was nervous about needles, but the nurse at the clinic was so gentle and reassuring. Hardly felt a thing. The service was prompt and I appreciated the travel tips they provided as well.” – Michael
  

• “Outstanding clinic – knowledgeable, welcoming, and thorough. They checked my records, gave me the shots I needed, and even followed up with additional info for my destination. Couldn’t ask for better care.” – James

These are just a few examples of the positive experiences travellers have at our clinics. Our team strives to keep that track record with every patient, ensuring you leave informed, protected, and satisfied.

Major Travel Vaccines and Diseases: What You Need to Know

Different destinations pose different health risks. In this section, we break down the major travel-related diseases and the vaccines that protect against them. This comprehensive overview will help you understand which vaccines might be recommended for your trip – and why. (We’ve also included a handy table summarising each vaccine and its regional relevance for quick reference.)

Key Travel Vaccines & Where They’re Needed (Summary)

For a quick glance, here’s a summary table of common travel vaccines, the diseases they prevent, and typical regions where they’re recommended for travellers:

Vaccine (Disease)Common Risk Regions / DestinationsYellow Fever Vaccine (Yellow Fever)Sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America (required for entry to many countries in these regions)Hepatitis A Vaccine (Hepatitis A)Africa, Asia, Central and South America, Middle East; anywhere with lower sanitation standards (widespread in tropical/subtropical regions) Hepatitis B Vaccine (Hepatitis B)Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, South and Central America; worldwide risk (especially for long stays or high-risk activities) Typhoid Vaccine (Typhoid Fever) South Asia (e.g. India, Pakistan), Africa, Southeast Asia, parts of South & Central America; areas with untreated water/poor hygiene Cholera Vaccine (Cholera)Localized areas of Africa, Asia, Haiti and parts of Americas during outbreaks or for remote/rural travel (especially where cholera epidemics occur)Tetanus Vaccine (Tetanus)¹Worldwide (especially in rural areas of developing countries).

Important for all destinations if not up to date; injury risk exists anywhere.Meningitis ACWY Vaccine (Meningococcal Meningitis)Sub-Saharan Africa (“meningitis belt” across West/Central Africa); Middle East (required for Hajj/Umrah in Saudi Arabia); also recommended for parts of Asia/Africa for extended stays or backpacking.Rabies Vaccine (Rabies)Asia (e.g. India, Southeast Asia), Africa, parts of Latin America – especially if planning rural travel, wildlife exposure, or long trips. (Anywhere rabid animals may be present.)Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine (JE)Rural areas of Southeast Asia and East Asia (e.g. Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Japan, Philippines, etc.), especially if visiting farms/rice fields or during monsoon season.Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine (TBE)Central, Eastern & Northern Europe (forested areas in countries like Austria, Germany, Scandinavia, Baltic states, Russia) and parts of East Asia (e.g. China, Japan). Risk for campers/hikers in spring-summer.Dengue Vaccine (Dengue Fever)²Southeast Asia, South Asia, Pacific Islands, Central and South America, Caribbean, parts of Africa – tropical urban and rural areas. (Vaccine considered mainly for those with prior dengue or extended stays in high-risk areas.)

Notes:
¹ The tetanus vaccine is usually given as a combined booster (Td/IPV) that also covers diphtheria and polio – important diseases to check before travel.
² Dengue vaccine (e.g. Qdenga®) is a newer vaccine available in the UK; it’s generally recommended on a case-by-case basis, often for travelers with a history of dengue or those spending a long time in high-risk regions.

Now, let’s explore each of these travel health threats in more detail and explain how Surrey Travel Clinics can help protect you:

Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever is a serious viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes in certain tropical regions. It causes flu-like symptoms, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), and can lead to liver failure or death in severe cases. There is no cure for Yellow Fever, making prevention through vaccination critical.

• Where is it a risk? Yellow Fever is found in parts of sub-Saharan Africa and South America. Popular travel destinations like Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Brazil, Peru, and many others have Yellow Fever risk zones. Many countries in these regions require proof of vaccination for entry if you’re coming from (or even just transiting through) a Yellow-Fever area. Even if not required, it’s recommended for your safety when traveling to endemic areas.

• The vaccine: The Yellow Fever vaccine is a highly effective single-dose live vaccine that provides long-lasting (often lifetime) immunity. After vaccination, you’ll receive an official Yellow Fever certificate (ICVP), which is valid 10 days after the shot and then for life. Surrey Travel Clinics is an authorised Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre – both our Horton (Epsom) and Oxshott branches can administer the vaccine and issue you the certificate on the spot. Our Yellow Fever Vaccine page has more details on what to expect. We ensure the vaccine is given safely and that you meet all entry requirements for your trip.

• When to get it: Ideally, get the Yellow Fever jab at least 10 days before travel (required minimum for the certificate to become valid). Plan sooner if possible, in case of any rare side effects. We stock the vaccine at our Surrey clinics – it’s wise to book your Yellow Fever vaccine early since demand can be high during peak travel seasons.

Hepatitis A & Hepatitis B

Hepatitis A and B are two distinct viruses that affect the liver. They are common travel-related infections, and many travelers get vaccinated against both.

• Hepatitis A: A virus spread through contaminated food and water, or close personal contact. It causes liver inflammation with symptoms like fever, nausea, jaundice, and can ruin a holiday (illness can last weeks). Hepatitis A is present worldwide, but the risk is highest in regions with lower sanitation: Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, and some parts of Eastern Europe. Even popular tourist resorts can pose a risk if food hygiene isn’t top-notch. The Hepatitis A vaccine is a simple injection (or two doses for long-term protection) that provides immunity for years. It’s one of the most recommended travel vaccines for anyone heading to developing regions. We offer the Hep A vaccine at Surrey Travel Clinics – it’s often given free on the NHS for travel​nhs.uk, but if you need it quickly or prefer our service, we can provide it at our clinics.

• Hepatitis B: A virus transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. Travelers can catch Hep B through unprotected sex, contaminated needles (e.g. medical or tattoo), or accidents/injuries requiring medical care in countries with higher Hep B rates. It’s prevalent in Asia, Africa, the South Pacific, parts of South America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. While casual tourists may have lower risk, Hep B vaccination is strongly advised for longer trips, expatriate assignments, adventurous travel, or anyone who wants complete protection. The Hepatitis B vaccine usually requires a course of 3 doses (over about 1–6 months, though accelerated schedules are available). It provides long-term protection and is often combined with Hep A into a single shot for convenience. Surrey Travel Clinics can administer the Hep B series and offer guidance on scheduling. If you’re short on time, we can use accelerated schedules (e.g. 3 shots within 1 month and a booster later) to ensure you get some protection before you leave.

Many travelers opt for the combined Hepatitis A & B vaccine (Twinrix), which covers both diseases in one series. Our Hepatitis A/B Vaccine page provides a comprehensive overview. Bottom line: Hep A is a must for most tropical or subtropical travel, and Hep B is a highly recommended addition, especially if you’ll be abroad for extended periods or might need medical care in a destination. We’ll help you determine the best Hepatitis vaccination plan based on your itinerary.

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, usually spread through contaminated food or water. It’s a significant risk in areas with poor sanitation. Symptoms include high fever, weakness, stomach pain, and without prompt treatment, typhoid can be life-threatening.

• Where is it a risk? Typhoid is most common in South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh – travellers to these countries are often strongly urged to vaccinate). It’s also present in parts of Southeast Asia, Africa, South America, and Central America. Even popular tourist spots can pose risk if you eat or drink contaminated items. Essentially, any region with questionable water quality or street food hygiene could expose you to typhoid.

• The vaccine: The Typhoid vaccine is available in two forms – an injectable vaccine and oral capsules. The injection (either Typhoid polysaccharide vaccine or combined Hepatitis A+Typhoid in one shot) is the more common choice and protects for about 3 years. Oral vaccine capsules (taken over several days) protect for about 5 years but require careful adherence and are not suitable for everyone. At Surrey Travel Clinics, we typically provide the injectable Typhoid vaccine for quick, reliable protection. It’s a single dose. Since typhoid vaccination is recommended for many popular destinations, we keep it in stock and will advise if you need it. Check our Typhoid Vaccine page for more details.

• Advice: Even if you’re vaccinated, you should still practice food and water precautions – drink bottled or purified water, and eat well-cooked foods – as the vaccine isn’t 100% and there are other germs out there. We’ll give you tips on staying food-safe abroad during your visit.

Cholera

Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal illness caused by Vibrio cholerae bacteria, typically contracted from contaminated water or food. It leads to severe watery diarrhea and dehydration. Cholera is generally associated with settings where sanitation and clean water access are poor (for example, in humanitarian disaster zones or very remote areas).

• Where is it a risk? Most travellers have a low risk of cholera. It’s present in parts of Africa (e.g. Kenya, Nigeria, D.R. Congo), South Asia (Bangladesh, India), Southeast Asia (parts of Vietnam, etc.), Haiti, and pockets of Central America. Typically, cholera risk is higher for aid workers, those visiting friends/relatives in high-risk areas, or adventure travellers far off the tourist track. Outbreaks can occur after natural disasters or in refugee camps.

• The vaccine: Cholera vaccination is oral (no injection needed). In the UK, the oral cholera vaccine (brand name Dukoral) is available for travellers. It comes as a course of two doses (drinkable liquid) taken about a week apart, at least a week or two before travel. The vaccine provides short-term protection (around 2 years) against cholera, particularly the severe dehydrating form. At Surrey Travel Clinics, we can prescribe and provide the oral cholera vaccine for those who need it. We’ll assess your itinerary – most standard tourists won’t require cholera vaccine, but if your plans warrant it, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also discuss preventive measures like water purification and hygiene, which are the frontline defenses against cholera.

• Keep in mind: The cholera vaccine also offers some protection against E. coli traveller’s diarrhea as a side benefit, but you should still be careful with food and water. If you’re unsure whether you need cholera vaccination, just ask our team during your consultation.

Tetanus (and Diphtheria/Polio)

Tetanus, also known as “lockjaw,” is a bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani spores entering a wound. It’s not a disease you catch from others, but rather from the environment – often through cuts or punctures contaminated with soil or dirt. Tetanus causes severe muscle spasms and can be fatal if untreated.

• Where is it a risk? Tetanus is present worldwide, including the UK, but it’s extremely rare at home due to vaccination. Travelers are at risk particularly if visiting rural areas, hiking, or doing outdoor activities in countries with limited medical services. Essentially, any travel where you might not get prompt wound care can pose a tetanus risk if you’re not vaccinated. Developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America have more tetanus cases simply due to lower vaccination coverage in the population.

• The vaccine: Most people have had tetanus shots as part of routine childhood immunisations and boosters. Before travelling, ensure your tetanus vaccine is up to date (a booster is recommended every 10 years for continuous protection). In the UK, the tetanus booster is usually given as a combination Td/IPV vaccine – protecting against Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Polio in one injection. This triple protection is especially important if traveling, as diphtheria and polio still circulate in some parts of the world. If you haven’t had a tetanus booster in the last 10 years (or aren’t sure), Surrey Travel Clinics can quickly get you protected. Our Tetanus Vaccine page outlines who should get it and why. The shot is quick and generally well-tolerated (minor arm soreness is the most common side effect).

• Why it matters for travel: In the hustle of travel prep, tetanus boosters can be overlooked since it’s not tied to one destination – it’s more of a general precaution. But stepping on a rusty nail while backpacking or getting a cut while hiking can happen anywhere. We always review your tetanus/diphtheria/polio status in a pre-travel consult. If needed, we will provide the booster so you don’t risk a preventable emergency abroad.

Meningitis ACWY

Meningococcal meningitis is a severe bacterial infection of the lining of the brain/spinal cord, caused by Neisseria meningitidis strains. It can progress rapidly and be life-threatening. There are several strains (serogroups) globally; A, C, W, and Y are notable for travel.

• Where is it a risk? The biggest concern region for travellers is the “Meningitis Belt” in sub-Saharan Africa – a region stretching across northern sub-Saharan Africa from Senegal in the west to Ethiopia in the east. In this area, especially during the dry season, meningitis outbreaks are more common. If you are traveling to countries like Nigeria, Niger, Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, etc., during peak season or living/working in close contact with local communities, the vaccine is strongly advised. Additionally, Saudi Arabia requires proof of Meningitis ACWY vaccination for all pilgrims attending the Hajj or Umrah (and for many seasonal workers there). Even some other destinations (parts of Asia or Africa) might have recommendations depending on outbreaks or extended travel plans (such as volunteering or attending large gatherings).

• The vaccine: The Men ACWY vaccine protects against four strains (A, C, W, Y) of meningococcus. It’s given as a single injection and provides protection for about 5 years. Surrey Travel Clinics offer the Men ACWY jab and can issue the certificate needed for Hajj/Umrah travel. Our Meningitis ACWY Vaccine page details this service. We use the recommended vaccines (such as Nimenrix® or Menveo®) that are accepted for entry requirements. If you’re heading to the Middle East for pilgrimage or across central Africa, we’ll make sure you’re immunised in time.

• Other meningitis info: Remember, meningitis can also be spread in close quarters like hostels or dormitories. Some travelers, like students or those on group tours, choose to vaccinate for peace of mind even outside high-risk regions. The vaccine is safe and side effects are usually mild. We’ll discuss your itinerary to decide if this is needed.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly viral disease affecting the nervous system, usually transmitted via the bite or scratch of an infected animal (commonly dogs, bats, or monkeys in many countries). Once symptoms appear, rabies is nearly always fatal, so prevention is key.

• Where is it a risk? Rabies is found on every continent except Antarctica, but the risk to travellers is highest in Asia (especially India and Southeast Asia), Africa, parts of Latin America, and some pockets of Eastern Europe. If you’re visiting countries like India, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia (including Bali), China, Kenya, Tanzania, or Peru, for example, rabies exposure is something to consider – especially if you’ll be around animals, in rural areas, cycling, running, or cave exploring (bats). Even in cities, stray dogs or monkeys (at temples or parks) can pose a risk. Travellers with young children should be extra cautious, as kids may not report minor bites.

• The vaccine: Pre-exposure rabies vaccination involves 3 injections given over the course of about 3–4 weeks (Day 0, 7, and 21/28). This series primes your immune system. If you are vaccinated and then have a potential rabies exposure abroad, you still must get prompt medical care, but the treatment is simpler (fewer post-bite shots and no need for rabies immunoglobulin, which can be hard to get in developing areas). If you’re not vaccinated and get bitten, the post-exposure treatment is more intensive and sometimes inaccessible, so the vaccine can truly be lifesaving for some travellers. We provide the rabies vaccine course at both Horton and Oxshott clinics. Our Rabies Vaccine page explains the schedule and benefits. We often recommend it for long-term travelers, backpackers, or anyone who might be far from reliable medical care.

• Should you get it? We will assess your itinerary. For example, a two-week resort stay in a rabies-endemic country might not necessitate it if your activities are low-risk, but a month of volunteering in rural Cambodia or a cycling trip through Vietnam likely would. Many travellers opt for safety, especially given the severity of rabies. The vaccine is very safe; aside from cost, there’s little downside to getting it if recommended. We also educate all travellers on avoiding animal bites: don’t pet stray dogs or monkeys, and if you are bitten or scratched (even if vaccinated), wash the wound immediately and seek medical advice without delay.

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne viral disease found in Asia. It can cause inflammation of the brain. While most infections are asymptomatic or mild, a small percentage lead to severe encephalitis, which can be fatal or cause long-term neurological issues.

• Where is it a risk? JE is found in East, South, and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Nepal, Bangladesh, China, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. It’s primarily a rural and agricultural disease – the mosquitoes that transmit JE breed in rice paddies and rural water bodies. The risk to short-term urban tourists is low. However, if you plan to spend extended time in rural areas (especially >1 month), visit farms, go trekking in the countryside, or travel during the monsoon season when mosquito populations peak, JE becomes a concern. For example, backpackers touring Southeast Asia for several months or expats moving to a village in Asia should consider it. Even short-term travelers engaging in a lot of outdoor night-time exposure in endemic areas might consider the vaccine.

• The vaccine: The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine (brand name IXIARO in the UK) is given as a two-dose series (ideally spaced 28 days apart, though an accelerated 7-day schedule can sometimes be used). It provides about 1-2 years of protection (boosters can extend this). Surrey Travel Clinics offers this vaccine; it’s one of the more specialized travel vaccines, often in limited supply, but we can arrange it for those who need it. See our Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine page for details on timing and what to expect. Because JE is serious and there’s no specific treatment, vaccination is the best protection if you’re at risk.

• Additional tips: Whether you get the JE vaccine or not, mosquito bite prevention is vital in Asia (to prevent JE as well as malaria, dengue, etc.). We’ll advise on using repellents (with DEET), bed nets, covering up in evenings, and possibly carrying mosquito nets or plug-in repellents. If your travels in Asia are short and mostly urban, we might advise skipping JE vaccine but focusing strongly on bite avoidance. If in doubt, our experts will guide you based on your exact itinerary.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection of the brain spread by the bite of infected ticks. It’s more commonly encountered by campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts in certain parts of Europe and Asia. Like other encephalitis, it can cause severe neurological disease.

• Where is it a risk? TBE is present in many parts of Europe and northern Asia. High-risk areas include forested parts of Central and Eastern Europe (for instance, Austria, Germany’s Bavaria region, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland), the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania), Russia (especially the Siberian region), and parts of Scandinavia (southern Sweden, Finland). It’s also found in some areas of China, Mongolia, Japan and even northern Kazakhstan. If you plan outdoor activities like hiking, camping, foraging, or rural cycling tours in these areas during late spring to early autumn (tick season), you could be at risk. Travelers moving through cities or doing typical tourist sightseeing in Europe have a very low risk, but nature travelers should be mindful.

• The vaccine: Some European countries routinely vaccinate their residents against TBE. In the UK, Tick-Borne Encephalitis vaccine is available privately for travellers. The course is 2 primary doses (given 1-3 months apart) and a third dose after 5-12 months for longer-term protection (with boosters every 3-5 years if risk continues). For short-term travel, getting the first two doses before your trip already provides decent protection. Surrey Travel Clinics can arrange the TBE vaccine if your trip warrants it – although not everyone knows about this vaccine, it’s an important one for certain European adventures. (Imagine coming back from a hiking holiday in Austria with more than just memories!) If you’re unsure, check with us; our clinicians will know if your itinerary might need TBE coverage.

• Preventing tick bites: Whether or not you vaccinate, we counsel all Europe-bound adventurers on tick precautions: use insect repellent on skin and clothes (permethrin-treated clothing is great for ticks), wear long trousers and tuck them into socks when in long grass/woods, and do tick checks on your body each evening. Removing ticks promptly can prevent infection. We’ll provide you with guidance and even demonstration if needed on how to deal with ticks. Our goal is to keep your Alpine hikes and Baltic forest walks worry-free!

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection widespread in the tropics and subtropics. It’s known for causing high fever, severe headaches, joint/muscle pain (nicknamed “breakbone fever”), and in some cases can progress to a hemorrhagic fever which is very serious. Dengue is transmitted by daytime-biting Aedes mosquitoes which are common in urban areas.

• Where is it a risk? Dengue is found in over 100 countries. Major regions include Southeast Asia (Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines, etc.), South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Pakistan), Africa (parts of sub-Saharan Africa), the Caribbean (e.g. Jamaica, Dominican Republic), Central and South America (from Mexico and Nicaragua to Brazil and Peru), as well as some parts of the Pacific (Polynesia, etc.). If you’re traveling anywhere tropical or subtropical, especially during the rainy season, dengue should be on your radar. Even popular cities like Bangkok, Rio de Janeiro, or Delhi have dengue transmission. Unlike some diseases, even short city-stopovers can expose you to dengue if unlucky, because the mosquitoes live in urban habitats.

• The vaccine: Until recently, preventative measures (avoiding bites) were the only protection for travellers, as the first generation dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia) wasn’t suitable for most travelers. However, a new vaccine called Qdenga® (Dengue vaccine) has been approved in the UK and Europe. It can be given to individuals 4 years and older, and importantly it’s usable regardless of whether you’ve had dengue before. The current UK guidance is to consider it for those at high risk (for example, people with a history of dengue or who will be living long-term in high-risk areas)​thelancet.com. The vaccine involves 2 doses given 3 months apart. Surrey Travel Clinics is on the cutting edge of travel medicine – we offer advice on the dengue vaccine and can provide it for travellers who would benefit. Due to the nuances of who should get it, our clinician will carefully evaluate your situation. For most short-term travellers, dengue vaccine is not routinely given yet, but this is an evolving area. If you’re frequently in dengue zones or simply very concerned, ask us about it.

• Bite prevention: Regardless of vaccination, mosquito bite avoidance is crucial for dengue (and other mosquito illnesses like Zika, chikungunya, etc.). We emphasize using DEET-based repellents, wearing long sleeves/light-colored clothing, staying in accommodations with screens or air-con, and using mosquito coils or plug-ins as needed. Daytime precautions are important since dengue mosquitoes bite mainly during early morning and late afternoon. Our team will equip you with practical tips to significantly reduce your risk. Remember: no vaccine is 100% – being mosquito-smart is your first line of defense on top of any jabs.

By reviewing all these diseases and vaccines, you can see that preparedness is key. During your consultation at Surrey Travel Clinics, we’ll personalize these recommendations. You might not need every vaccine above, but we will ensure you don’t miss any that you do need. Now, let’s look at how vaccine needs vary by destination region.

Travel Vaccines by Destination: Advice for Different Regions

Health risks differ around the globe. Here we provide a quick guide to travel vaccines and precautions by region, highlighting what Surrey travellers should consider when visiting each area. (For more in-depth destination-specific advice, check out our dedicated destination pages linked below.)

Africa Travel Vaccines

Africa is a vast continent with diverse climates – from the Sahara to the savannah to tropical jungles. Many African countries require or recommend multiple vaccines for visitors. Key vaccines for Africa often include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio (as a baseline for most areas). If you’re going to sub-Saharan or West Africa, Yellow Fever vaccination is frequently required or strongly recommended. For example, countries like Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa (and many others) all have vaccine recommendations. Meningitis ACWY is important if you’ll be in the meningitis belt region (for instance, volunteering or long stays in countries like Burkina Faso, Niger, etc.). Rabies is worth considering especially if you’ll be in rural areas or around animals (like on safari or visiting villages). East African and Southern African countries have notable wildlife, so rabies precaution is wise for adventurers. Malaria is also a big consideration in Africa (while not a vaccine, you’ll likely need anti-malarial tablets for many African destinations – we will advise on this too).

Surrey Travel Clinics has extensive experience prepping travellers for Africa – whether it’s a Kenyan safari, a work trip to Nigeria, or an overland tour from Cairo to Cape Town. We keep Yellow Fever vaccine in stock and are certified to administer it (essential for Africa travel). For more details specific to African regions and countries, see our Africa Travel Vaccines guide. That page breaks down popular destinations and what jabs are “must-haves.” In short, plan ahead for Africa: some vaccines like Yellow Fever must be done and documented; others like Hep A, typhoid, etc., ensure you stay healthy while enjoying the continent’s wonders.

Asia Travel Vaccines

Asia is enormous and varied – from the Middle East across South Asia to East and Southeast Asia. Vaccination needs will depend on which part of Asia you visit, but some common threads exist. For much of Southeast Asia and South Asia (think Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia (Bali), Malaysia; or India, Sri Lanka, Nepal) you should be up to date on Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio at minimum. These regions have delicious street foods and rural adventures, making Hep A and typhoid important. Japanese Encephalitis vaccine might be advised if you’re spending a lot of time in rural areas or going during monsoon. Rabies vaccine is often recommended for long stays or for anyone likely to interact with animals (stray dogs and monkeys are infamously present at tourist sites in Asia). Hepatitis B is wise for longer trips or Asia-Pacific work assignments.

In East Asia (e.g. China, Japan, South Korea), the requirements are a bit lighter for typical tourists – ensure routine vaccines plus maybe Hep A. Japan and Korea have very high standards of hygiene; China has regions where JE might be a concern. Central Asia (e.g. Silk Road countries) often calls for Hep A, typhoid, and maybe rabies if going rural.

Not to forget, the Middle East (West Asia) has its own considerations: generally Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus are basic if you’re off the beaten path. Some Middle Eastern countries have polio considerations (if coming from certain countries, a polio booster may be recommended). And as mentioned, Saudi Arabia requires Meningitis ACWY for Hajj/Umrah pilgrims.

For a closer look at Asian destinations, see our Asia Travel Vaccines guide (covering Southeast/East Asia), and our Middle East Travel Vaccines page for the Gulf, Levant, etc. These resources list the must-have jabs for places like Thailand, India, China, the Middle East and more. In summary, Asia travel often means focusing on food- and water-borne illness prevention (Hep A, typhoid), plus mosquito-borne ones (JE, dengue). Our team will tailor advice whether you’re trekking in the Himalayas, island-hopping in Thailand, or visiting Dubai.

South America Travel Vaccines

South America offers everything from Amazon jungles to Andean mountains. Travel health prep for this continent commonly includes Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus/Diphtheria/Polio as basic protection. Many countries in South America – especially in the north and central parts of the continent – have Yellow Fever endemic zones. For instance, if you’re heading to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador or the Amazon basin in general, a Yellow Fever vaccine may be recommended or required (and it’s certainly wise for the Amazon region). Hepatitis B should be considered for extended or remote travel. Rabies risk exists, particularly in rural areas or if you’ll explore caves (bats in some areas carry rabies). Cholera is not commonly needed except possibly for aid workers or extreme remote travel, but we’ll evaluate if any outbreaks are happening.

One shouldn’t forget Central America and the Caribbean in this context (though technically separate regions, vaccine advice overlaps with South America). Central America (e.g. Mexico, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Panama) and the Caribbean islands often require Hep A and typhoid protection, and sometimes recommend Yellow Fever if coming from risk areas. Dengue is widespread in these tropical areas, so mosquito precautions are key (and malaria prophylaxis in certain zones like parts of Amazon, some Central American countries).

Our South America Travel Vaccines guide provides detailed insight for countries from Argentina to Colombia. (For Central America, you can consult our main Destinations page or ask our pharmacists – we cover that too.) The bottom line: South and Central America journeys often involve jungle or rural excursions where Yellow Fever, malaria, and other tropical diseases lurk. Being vaccinated and prepared will let you marvel at Machu Picchu or roam Costa Rican rainforests with peace of mind.

Europe Travel Vaccines

Travelling within Europe generally poses minimal exotic disease risk compared to other regions, especially if sticking to Western and Northern Europe. If you’re up to date on routine UK immunisations (including tetanus/diphtheria/polio), you’re usually well covered. However, there are a few things to consider depending on your plans: Hepatitis A outbreaks do occur in Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean (and some southern/eastern European countries have lower sanitation in remote areas), so a Hep A vaccine could be prudent if you’ll be visiting rural Turkey, Eastern Europe, or camping in places with questionable water. Tick-Borne Encephalitis (as discussed) is a concern if hiking or camping in parts of Central/Eastern Europe or Scandinavia – popular for adventure travellers. If you plan to volunteer on farms or do outdoor work in Europe, Rabies vaccine might be considered (rabies exists in wildlife like bats or foxes in some European countries, though risk to typical tourists is very low).

For Eastern Europe (e.g. Ukraine, Russia) or the Balkans, check if polio is up to date because there have been rare poliovirus detections in some areas in recent years – the UK booster covers this anyway. Measles is another disease seeing resurgences in some parts of Europe; ensure you’ve had two MMR shots (we can provide an MMR if needed as well).

In summary, Europe doesn’t usually require special travel vaccines, but travel health isn’t only about vaccines – ensure you have travel insurance, carry any regular medications, and know how to get medical help abroad using your EHIC/GHIC card (for EU/UK travelers). For any questions about European travel health (from Alps hiking to Mediterranean cruises), our team can advise. While we don’t have a separate Europe vaccines page, our general Destinations overview covers global travel prep and our experts are just a call away.

Middle East Travel Vaccines

The Middle East is a mix of very developed areas and more rural settings. For most Middle Eastern countries (e.g. UAE, Oman, Qatar, Israel), standard recommendations like Hepatitis A, Tetanus (if not up to date) apply, particularly if you’ll venture outside the luxury resorts. If you’re only visiting major cities, risk is low, but enjoying local street food or traveling into the countryside raises risk for Hep A or typhoid, so those vaccines are sensible. Jordan, Egypt, Morocco (North Africa but often part of Middle East itineraries) – Hep A and typhoid are commonly advised for these destinations. Turkey similarly, especially if you’ll explore more rural eastern parts or small villages. As mentioned earlier, Meningitis ACWY is required for Saudi Arabia if doing the Hajj/Umrah, and recommended if you’re spending time in crowded areas during pilgrimage season. Polio: Certain countries like Pakistan or Afghanistan have had polio cases; if you transit there, a polio booster might be recommended (again, our tetanus/DTP booster covers that if needed).

Our Middle East Travel Vaccines page highlights the must-have jabs for travellers to the region. In short, the Middle East is more about common travel vaccines (Hep A, maybe typhoid) and being mindful of food/water and heat-related issues. We’ll make sure you have what you need for a camel trek in Jordan or a food tour in Cairo alike.

Each region has its unique challenges, but rest assured, Surrey Travel Clinics is equipped to guide you through all of them. We maintain an up-to-date knowledge base of travel health recommendations for every continent. During your appointment, we’ll discuss your specific destinations (sometimes people visit multiple regions in one trip – we handle that complexity too!) and ensure you’re vaccinated appropriately. You can also browse our Destinations hub for a summary of vaccine advice by region, and click through to specific continent pages for deeper insight.

Ready to Travel? Book Your Travel Vaccine Appointment Today

Your health is the most important travel companion you have. With proper vaccinations and expert guidance, you can explore the world with confidence knowing you’ve taken the right precautions. Surrey Travel Clinics in Horton (Epsom) and Oxshott are here to make travel health easy and accessible for you.

Our friendly team is happy to answer any questions and create a personalized immunisation plan tailored to your itinerary. We stock a full range of travel vaccines – from the everyday ones to rarer vaccines – so you can conveniently get all your jabs in one place. Unsure what you need? We’ll walk you through it step by step, in a stress-free consultation. We also provide competitive pricing on vaccines and will advise on any that are available through the NHS vs private, so you can make informed decisions (see our Pricing page for a list of vaccine costs – you’ll find we offer excellent value for the Surrey area).

Don’t leave your travel health to chance. Preventing an illness is far easier than treating one abroad. If you have an upcoming trip – whether it’s a beach holiday, a business trip, gap year backpacking, or a family visit overseas – now is the time to arrange your vaccines. Book an appointment with Surrey Travel Clinics and let us handle the rest.

📞 Contact us: You can easily schedule your visit through our online booking system or by calling our Horton or Oxshott branches directly. Our staff will find a convenient slot for you (remember, we’re open six days a week!).

Visit us in Epsom or Oxshott: Whichever location suits you, you’ll receive the same great care. Both clinics have free parking and are located in accessible areas of Surrey. We often accommodate families or group appointments – so if you’re traveling with your partner or family, we can see you together and make sure everyone is protected.

Take the first step toward a safe, healthy journey. Surrey Travel Clinics is proud to be the local travel health specialist for Surrey, Epsom, Leatherhead, Oxshott, and surrounding communities. With our comprehensive travel vaccine services, you can focus on planning your itinerary, not worrying about diseases. Book your travel health consultation today, and travel with peace of mind knowing you’ve got the shield of vaccination and the support of our expert team every mile of the way. Bon voyage and stay healthy!