Which Travel Vaccines Are Available on the NHS?

If you’re planning to travel abroad, particularly outside of Europe, there’s a good chance you’ll need one or more travel vaccinations. But which ones are available on the NHS, and which ones must you pay for privately?

This blog explains the difference between NHS travel vaccines and private travel vaccines, helping you make informed decisions before your trip.

🩺 Can I Get Travel Vaccines on the NHS?

Yes – but only a limited selection of vaccines are available on the NHS for free. These are vaccines that protect against diseases where there’s a greater public health risk if the disease is brought back into the UK.

You can usually get these vaccines from your GP practice or local travel clinic. However, many NHS practices no longer provide travel services, which means you may need to visit a private clinic like Ready Health.

✅ Travel Vaccines Available on the NHS

The following vaccines are free on the NHS if your travel risk assessment confirms you need them:

• Polio – given as a combined jab with diphtheria and tetanus

• Typhoid

• Hepatitis A

• Cholera

💡 You may be able to receive these NHS-funded vaccines at a private clinic if you choose to pay for convenience or availability.

❌ Travel Vaccines NOT Available on the NHS

The vaccines below are not funded by the NHS for travel purposes. You will need to book a private travel consultation to access these:

• Hepatitis B

• Japanese encephalitis

• Meningitis ACWY

• Yellow fever

• Tick-borne encephalitis

• Rabies

• BCG (for TB)

• Chikungunya

Some of these vaccines are required for entry to certain countries. For example, yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travel to some areas in Africa and South America.

🔗 RCN Travel Health Guidance

💬 Why Choose a Private Travel Clinic?

Private travel clinics like Ready Health offer:

• Fast access to all travel vaccines (NHS and private)

• Malaria prevention and expert travel advice

• Flexible appointments, including evenings and weekends

• Access to clinicians trained in risk-based travel assessments

✈️ Final Thoughts

Before you head off on your travels, it’s important to understand which vaccines you need – and whether they’re NHS or private. Don’t leave it to the last minute, as some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks.

Book your travel consultation with Ready Health today – and travel with confidence, knowing you’re protected.