Travel-health advice is personal. It depends on the countries and regions you will visit, the time of year, the length and style of the trip, the activities planned and the health of each traveller. I can direct you to reliable information, but a qualified travel-health professional must advise you about your own medical needs.

Start with country guidance, then ask a health professional

Check the destination pages on NHS Inform and TravelHealthPro, then arrange a travel-health consultation. NHS guidance recommends seeking advice at least four to six weeks before travel because some vaccinations require several doses or time to become effective. Some trips require earlier preparation. If departure is closer, still ask for advice rather than assuming it is too late.

Topics to discuss

• Routine UK vaccinations and any destination-specific vaccinations or boosters.

• Vaccination certificates or other health documents required for entry or transit.

• Malaria prevention, insect-bite avoidance, food and water precautions, altitude or heat.

• Pregnancy, reduced immunity, long-term conditions, recent treatment and the needs of children or older travellers.

• Prescription medicines, controlled drugs, carrying letters or copies of prescriptions, storage and destination restrictions.

• Access to suitable care at the destination and whether planned activities change the health risk.

Healthcare cards and insurance

A valid UK GHIC or eligible EHIC can provide access to some state healthcare in certain countries, but it does not replace travel insurance. It does not cover every medical cost, private treatment or medical repatriation to the UK.

Important Notice

Travel health is your responsibility. You are responsible for obtaining medical advice, vaccinations, certificates and medicines in time, and for checking the current health and entry requirements for every destination and transit point. Tell the insurer about all information it asks for, including medical conditions, medication, pending tests and changes in health.