• Japanese encephalitis, rabies and hepatitis A[1] are the most common diseases that Brits are accessing advice and protection for at Boots
• Millennials, particularly those aged 25-34, are the largest age group accessing the Boots Travel Vaccinations & Health Advice Service as they travel to far-flung destinations
• Boots Superintendent Pharmacist Claire Nevinson shares advice about travel vaccinations ahead of peak summer holiday season

New Boots data has revealed rabies, Japanese encephalitis and hepatitis A are the most common diseases that customers are accessing advice and protection for at Boots[1] as more than a third of holidaymakers are planning to visit long-haul locations in 2025,[2] with Thailand, India and China cited as the most popular destinations to visit.[3]

While there are no mandatory vaccinations when travelling to tropical destinations, healthcare professionals strongly recommend being up to date with childhood vaccinations before travelling and seeking advice on diseases you may be exposed to whilst in a tropical location, such as hepatitis A, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis and rabies.

Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots, said: “It’s important to take steps to protect our health when we travel abroad so we can focus on enjoying our holiday. Travel vaccinations may be recommended depending on where you are travelling, the activities you will be doing, and your age and general health.”

Claire has shared key things people should know about travel vaccinations ahead of the peak summer holiday season.

Why might you need to consider getting vaccinated before you go abroad?

“If you’re travelling abroad this summer, you may be exposed to diseases we don’t usually have in the UK. Travel vaccinations may be recommended for your trip as a measure to help prevent you picking these illnesses up. The childhood vaccination programme in the UK provides protection from several diseases, but it may also be necessary to consider boosters or other vaccinations if you're planning to visit certain parts of the world.”

What vaccinations might you need?

“The Quick Check Tool on boots.com can help find the health risks of the country you are visiting. Through the Boots Travel Vaccination & Health Advice Service, we offer a range of vaccinations and health advice to help protect you from diseases like cholera and typhoid. If you are unsure which vaccinations you need to consider, visit a Boots store that offers the service.”

What other healthcare products should you consider?

“Whether you’re jetting off or keeping it local this summer, it’s always wise to pack a few healthcare products depending on the destination you’re travelling to. A small first aid kit may be a good start. You could consider including pain relief medicine, antihistamine medicine to help relieve symptoms of hayfever and other allergies, plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent and of course broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30. It’s also important to make sure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medicines that you take.

“Additionally, I’d always check whether you might need medication to help prevent malaria. It is important that antimalarials are started before you travel to a place where you might be at risk. If you’re not sure whether there is a risk of malaria for your holiday destination, use our Quick Check Tool.”

The Boots Travel Vaccinations & Health Advice Service is available in selected UK stores, and can be accessed to help provide protection against diseases such as  cholera, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, meningitis and  malaria.*

 

*Eligibility criteria and charges apply.  In selected pharmacies, subject to availability. A Travel Health Service consultation fee may apply.

[1] Boots Data - IRI Gateway; 52 weeks rolling, w/e 09/03/2024

[2] ABTA – Travel Trends for 2025, November 2024

[3] As above