Vaccinations Needed for Countries Around the World

Travelling the world is a glorious thing, travel not only enriches you but helps you understand how different cultures live. When travelling outside of the UK you may require some vital vaccinations, not only will they protect your health, but some countries will require proof of vaccinations before entering. In this blog we’re going to look at the most common vaccinations and which ones you need for each continent, so you can enjoy travelling to every inch of this wonderful world!

The Most Common Vaccinations

Diphtheria

Highly contagious and possibly fatal, Diphtheria affects the nose, throat and sometimes the skin. The disease is rare in the UK as this vaccination is given when you’re a baby; however, a top-up may be needed if you haven’t had it in the last ten years.

Hepatitis A

Caused by a virus that’s spread through the faeces of an infected person, the liver infection isn’t usually serious, and it should only take a few months to recover. The vaccination is given as two doses, an initial injection, followed by a second six to 12 months after, protecting you for 20 years.

Hepatitis B

Caused by a virus that’s spread through blood and bodily fluids, much like A, Hepatitis B isn’t usually severe, and it should only take a few months to recover. The dose involves a course of three injections and can be spread over a long or short period.

Japanese Encephalitis

The viral brain infection is spread through mosquito bites. There’s currently no cure for Japanese Encephalitis, in some cases people affected will be unaware; however, 1 in 250 people infected will have severe symptoms. If you’re thinking about travelling for longer than a month in areas that the infection is most commonly found, a course of two injections will be needed.

Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)

The routine vaccination is usually given to children when they’re a year old, with the second dose being given just before they start school. In some cases, children may not have had both doses, and if you’re unsure if you’ve had the full dose, it is important to check with the GP before travelling.

Polio

The serious viral infection isn’t as common in the UK as it used to be due to the vaccination. Most people who contract the disease will be unaware they have it, however, in some cases, it can be life-threatening. The vaccination is given in five separate doses; during the first few weeks of being born when you’re a toddler and again when you’re a teenager. If you’ve not had the full course or haven’t had a booster in the last ten years, it is highly recommended you get the vaccination before heading off on your travels.

Rabies

The rare but severe disease is contracted by being bitten or scratched by an affected animal, most likely to be a dog. If you’re travelling to Asia, Africa, South or Central America and plan on running or cycling on your travels, it is advised to get the vaccination.

TDP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis)

The combination vaccination protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, given to all children. Tetanus affects the nervous system and brain, entering the body via a wound or cut and can be extremely painful. Pertussis (or whooping cough) is an extremely contagious infection which can lead to severe breathing problems. If your dose was given more than ten years ago, it is highly recommended to have a booster.

Typhoid Fever

Caused by a bacterium called Salmonella typhi, this highly contagious infection can be spread via passing bacteria out of one’s body. The vaccination can either be taken as a single injection or as capsules.

Yellow Fever

Spread by mosquito bites, the viral disease is of short duration. Many countries in the world will require a certificate of vaccination before entering, so it’s an essential vaccination when thinking about travelling to Africa or America.

Which Vaccinations are Needed for Each Continent?

Europe

If you’re enjoying a trip around Europe it is recommended that you have the necessary vaccinations, especially if you’re visiting any of Eastern Europe, such as Montenegro, Slovenia, Romania or Albania:

Hepatitis A
Diphtheria
Tetanus
Polio

Asia

If you’re thinking about backpacking around Asia, the vaccinations you require will depend on how long you’re going for, the time of year and the activities you have planned. The following vaccinations are the ones highly recommended before travel; however, it is key to speak to your GP about any additional ones you may need:

Polio
TDP
Hepatitis A
Typhoid

Africa

Known for a unique adventure and bounds of culture, if you’re heading on one of our Ethiopia tours, there are many recommended vaccinations you should receive before heading on a trip of a lifetime. Depending on which part of Africa you’re travelling to, what you plan on doing on your trip and how long you stay will depend on the specific vaccinations you require; however, these are the most common:

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Rabies
TDP
Polio
Typhoid
Yellow Fever

Central America

Central America is an incredibly popular destination for all types of travellers. If you’re thinking of taking a trip to the beautiful beaches, tropical rainforests and breath-taking volcanoes, the following vaccinations are recommended, although you should check with your GP as each part will require different vaccinations:

Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Rabies
TDP
Typhoid
Polio
Yellow Fever

South America

If you’re seeking adventure to a continent known for sophisticated cities, incredible carnivals and natural wonders, you will require a number of vaccinations:

Yellow Fever
Typhoid
TDP
Polio
Rabies
Hepatitis A

We hope this blog has given you an insight into the most common diseases and vaccinations needed when you’re thinking about travelling the world. We’ve covered the most common ones required; however, it’s essential to do more research into which vaccinations are required for specific parts of each continent. Where are you planning to travel to this year? We’d love to know!