Struggling With Travel Vaccinations? We’ve Got Solutions.

There’s currently a national shortage of vaccines, often regarded as travel injections. The vaccines that are low in stock are used to protect us against waterborne diseases – mostly picked up when we’re travelling. Worry not, read on for our top tips for keeping well – with or without a vaccine. 

Which vaccines protect us from waterborne diseases?

Hepatitis A, B and typhoid vaccines protect us against waterborne diseases. We currently have hep A in stock – so if you’re travelling book your appointment well in advance as it takes two to three weeks for immunity to develop after vaccination. 

What are waterborne diseases?

Waterborne diseases are illnesses brought about through ingesting microscopic organisms – usually through drinking contaminated water – or contamination from a carrier of the disease. Hepatitis A, B, typhoid and cholera are examples of waterborne diseases that can be picked up when travelling in parts of India, Africa, Central or Southern America, the Far and Middle East. 

How Can I Protect Myself Against Waterborne diseases?

  • don’t assume that any water in developing countries is safe  – not even to brush your teeth
  • drink only drinks from bottles or cans – avoid ice in drinks
  • wash your hands regularly – and always before you eat anything
  • carry  hand wash/ hand gel to ensure you sanitise often
  • boil any local water for at least one minute 
  • carry a filtered water bottle – we recommend Aquapure 
  • make sure you have a tummy kit in case you get diarrhoea
  • avoid street food of any kind
  • if eating fruit or veg – wash in purified water and peel before eating
  • don’t buy bottled water from street vendors – often bottles have been refilled with local tap water
  • if you do drink bottled water, check the seal breaks before you drink.

Need more information?

We understand that you’re going to be concerned with the low stocks of vaccines. But, be reassured after a chat with one of our super nurses, your fears will be allayed. If you want to find out more, watch our short YouTube video.