Travelling abroad requires proper preparation, and one of the most important steps in getting ready for your trip is ensuring that you’re protected from diseases that may be prevalent in your destination. Both the NHS and private clinics in the UK offer travel vaccinations, but there are notable differences between the two.
Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision about your health before you travel. In this blog, you can explore key aspects, such as the cost of private travel vaccines, NHS travel vaccine availability, the differences in service, and more, to help you decide which option is best for you.
NHS Travel Vaccines List UK: Which travel vaccines are free on the NHS?
The NHS provides free travel vaccinations for UK residents, but not all vaccines are available. Below is an overview of what is typically included in the NHS travel vaccination list:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid Fever
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio (if not received recently)
- Cholera
- Malaria prevention (in the form of tablets)
These vaccines are available for free through the NHS when travelling to certain destinations where these diseases are prevalent. However, vaccines for some diseases that are common in certain areas, such as yellow fever or Japanese encephalitis, are not covered under the NHS, but are offered privately across the UK.
Common Travel Vaccines Not Covered By The NHS
When travelling to countries with additional health risks, you may need to pay for vaccines that the NHS does not provide. Here are some common travel vaccines available privately and not on the NHS:
- Yellow Fever
- Hepatitis B
- Japanese Encephalitis
- Rabies
- Meningitis ACWY
These vaccines are crucial for travellers heading to regions where these diseases are endemic. The cost of private travel vaccinations varies depending on the vaccine, the clinic, and your location.
Cost of Private Travel Vaccinations UK
Private travel vaccines can range in price from £30 to over £100 per vaccine, depending on the type and provider. For example, yellow fever vaccination might cost around £60, while a course of hepatitis B shots may cost up to £150. The cost will also depend on the private travel clinic you visit. Keep in mind that many private clinics offer vaccination bundles or travel health packages, which may reduce the overall cost if you require multiple vaccines.
Private Travel Vaccinations Offered at Batley Pharmacy
If you’re unsure which vaccines are required for your destination, we recommend booking a consultation with our pharmacist to discuss Holiday Healthcare and Travellers Vaccinations.
Travel Vaccine | Age | Dosage per course | Single Dose Price |
| Cholera | 2-5 | 3 | £50 |
| 6+ | 2 | £50 | |
| Dengue Fever | 4+ | 2 | £125 |
| DTP | 10+ | 1 | £40 |
| Hajj and Umrah | 2+ | 1 | £55 |
| Hepatitis A | 2+ | 1 | £50 |
| Hepatitis B | 2+ | 3 | £50 |
| Japanese Encephalitis | 2+ | 2 | £125 |
| Meningitis ACWY | 2+ | 1 | £55 |
| Rabies | 2+ | 3 | £100 |
| Tick-borne Encephalitis | 2-15 | 3 | £60 |
| 16+ | 3 | £60 | |
| Typhoid | 2+ | 1 | £40 |
| 5+ | 1 | £40 |
Why Choose Private Travel Vaccines Over NHS?
There are several reasons travellers might prefer private travel vaccines over NHS-provided options:
1. Wider Range of Vaccines:
Private clinics offer a broader selection of vaccines, including those not covered by the NHS, like yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies.
2. Convenience:
Private travel clinics can offer faster access to vaccines. If you’re planning last-minute travel, private clinics typically have shorter wait times and may offer same-day vaccinations.
3. Comprehensive Travel Health Advice:
Many private clinics provide additional services such as travel health consultations, malaria advice, and prescriptions for travel-related medications, all tailored to your specific destination.
4. Flexible Scheduling:
Private clinics are often open in the evenings and weekends, offering flexibility that may not be available at NHS services.
Where to Get Travel Vaccines UK
If you’re looking for a private travel clinic UK, you can find many pharmacies, travel health clinics, and medical centres offering vaccinations. In particular, Batley Pharmacy provides a wide range of both NHS and private travel vaccines, making it easy to get the protection you need before your trip.
If you prefer the NHS route, you can check with your GP surgery to find out what free vaccines are available and book an appointment.
Benefits of Private Travel Vaccines
Opting for private travel vaccines offers several benefits, especially for travellers seeking convenience, flexibility, and a comprehensive service. Here are a few key advantages:
- Quick Access: No long waiting times for appointments or vaccines.
- Comprehensive Travel Health Services: Expert advice on disease risks, travel medications, and malaria prevention.
- Broader Vaccine Range: Access to vaccines not covered by the NHS, including yellow fever and hepatitis B.
Conclusion
Choosing between private travel vaccines UK and NHS travel vaccines UK depends on several factors, including your destination, vaccine availability, and your travel schedule. The NHS offers essential vaccines for free, but for a wider selection and faster service, private travel clinics are the best option. If you’re unsure which vaccines you need or how to get them, consulting with a pharmacy or clinic like Batley Pharmacy can help guide you through the process and ensure you’re fully prepared for your travels.
To learn more about travel health services or book your vaccines today, visit your local private travel clinic UK or speak with your GP about your NHS travel vaccination options.
FAQs
The NHS offers free travel vaccines for common diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, and polio. However, vaccines for diseases like yellow fever and hepatitis B are not covered.
Private travel vaccines include those for yellow fever, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, and meningitis ACWY. These vaccines are not available through the NHS.
Private travel vaccinations cost between £30 and £150, depending on the vaccine. Yellow fever might cost around £60, while a full course of hepatitis B vaccinations may reach £150 or more.
Yes, private clinics can often accommodate last-minute travel vaccination requests, with flexible scheduling and quick access to vaccines.
Yes, private clinics provide a wider range of travel vaccines, including those not covered by the NHS, such as yellow fever and hepatitis B.
Private travel vaccines offer faster service, a wider range of vaccines, and more flexible scheduling compared to the NHS, making them ideal for travellers with specific needs or tight timelines.
Yes, private travel vaccinations are typically faster and more flexible than those provided by the NHS. NHS appointments may require long waiting times, particularly during peak travel seasons. However, private travel clinics can offer quicker consultations and the ability to book appointments at your convenience, sometimes even on short notice. This makes private clinics an ideal choice for travellers with last-minute plans.
To find a private travel clinic near you, simply search online or visit local pharmacies that offer travel vaccination services. Private clinics will list the types of vaccines they offer and provide pricing information. Batley Pharmacy, for example, is a trusted provider, offering both NHS travel vaccines UK and private services.
