Chelsea Green Pharmacy
Travelling abroad with children is a fantastic way to make lifelong memories — but before you start packing the swimwear and sun cream, there’s one essential step that should never be overlooked: vaccinations. When you’re planning a family holiday outside of Europe, it’s crucial to make sure everyone is protected against illnesses that aren’t commonly found in the UK.
At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we regularly support families travelling to a wide range of destinations, from long-haul holidays in Thailand and South Africa to family visits in India and the Caribbean. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what parents need to know about travel vaccinations for children, how to prepare them, and when to book travel vaccinations for your trip.
Why Travel Vaccinations Are So Important for Children
Children’s immune systems are still developing, which makes them more vulnerable to certain infectious diseases. In countries where sanitation, food hygiene, and access to clean water vary, the risk of picking up a serious illness increases. Travel vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect your child’s health abroad — giving you peace of mind while you’re away.
Some diseases, like Hepatitis A, typhoid, or yellow fever, are rare in the UK but remain a threat in parts of Africa, Asia, South America, and the Middle East. Others, such as rabies, may be more common in rural or remote areas where medical help is harder to access.
Which Vaccines Might Your Child Need?
The vaccines your child may need depend on your destination, the type of travel (resort vs rural), the time of year, and your child’s age and medical history. Common vaccines we recommend for children include:
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Hepatitis A – available from age 1
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Typhoid – typically given to children over 2
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Yellow Fever – required for entry to certain countries, from 9 months old
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Rabies – particularly important for rural travel or if your child is likely to interact with animals
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Cholera – oral vaccine for children over 2 travelling to high-risk areas
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Japanese Encephalitis – for children over 2 visiting rural Asia during rainy season
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MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) – booster may be advised if your child hasn’t had both doses
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Tetanus and polio boosters – check if your child’s UK vaccinations are up to date
We’ll also advise on malaria prevention, if needed, which may involve tablets suitable for children.
When to Book Travel Vaccinations for Your Family
We strongly recommend that families book travel vaccinations at least 6–8 weeks before departure. Some vaccines require multiple doses, while others take time to become effective. If you’re travelling over school holidays or during peak travel seasons, appointments can fill up quickly — so early booking ensures your whole family stays protected.
If you’re leaving sooner, don’t worry. Even a short window before departure is better than none, and we’ll help you prioritise the most urgent vaccines based on your itinerary.
Making Travel Vaccinations Easier for Children
We understand that parents want reassurance when it comes to their children’s health. Our team at Chelsea Green Pharmacy offers a warm, friendly approach to help make the experience as comfortable as possible for young patients.
Here are a few tips to prepare your child for their vaccination appointment:
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Be honest and calm – Let your child know they may feel a quick pinch, but it’s over fast and helps keep them healthy on holiday.
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Bring a favourite toy or book – A distraction can help with nerves.
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Schedule wisely – Try to book appointments for a time when your child is well-rested and fed.
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Use numbing cream – We can recommend or apply a topical anaesthetic to reduce discomfort.
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Celebrate afterwards – A small treat or sticker can turn it into a positive memory.
Are Travel Vaccines Safe for Children?
Yes. Travel vaccines are carefully tested and approved for use in children of specific age groups. At Chelsea Green Pharmacy, we follow the latest NHS, WHO, and Public Health England guidelines to ensure that your child receives only the vaccines that are safe, necessary, and appropriate.
Mild side effects — such as redness at the injection site or low-grade fever — are possible, but serious reactions are extremely rare. We’ll explain exactly what to expect and how to manage any mild symptoms at home.
Book Travel Vaccinations for Your Family Today
Your holiday should be full of adventures — not avoidable illnesses. At Chelsea Green Pharmacy Travel Clinic, we offer family-friendly travel consultations, expert advice, and convenient appointments to help you book travel vaccinations with ease.
We’ll take care of everything — from checking your child’s vaccine history to tailoring protection based on your exact destination. Whether it’s your child’s first overseas trip or your tenth, we’re here to help keep your family safe every step of the way.
Book your travel consultation today and enjoy a worry-free holiday knowing your family is fully protected.
