Travel Vaccines and Advice for the United Kingdom
People travelling to the United Kingdom will have a lot to see. England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are some of the places to explore. Their activities will open the door to the history and culture of the United Kingdom.
England is filled with iconic landmarks for travellers to see. Scotland offers beautiful castles, hillsides, and wild animals. Wales has breathtaking landscapes from snow covered mountain peaks to an amazing coastline.
The United Kingdom is yours to discover. Whether you love nature, city life, or the history and culture, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the United Kingdom.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for United Kingdom?
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in United Kingdom
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for the United Kingdom?
What Is the Climate Like in the United Kingdom?
Is It Safe to Travel to the United Kingdom?
The Eagle and Child
What Should I Take to the United Kingdom?
Canadian Embassy in the United Kingdom
Do I Need Vaccines for United Kingdom?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for United Kingdom. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for United Kingdom: hepatitis A, polio, rabies, hepatitis B, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, chickenpox, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) and measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travellers. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travellers to most regions. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - COVID-19 –
Airborne –
Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Meningitis –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.
See the table below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for United Kingdom |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travellers. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Due to an increase in cases globally, an additional adult booster is recommended for most travellers to any destination. |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | Vaccine recommended for long-term travellers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travellers to most regions. |
Routine Vaccinations for United Kingdom |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| COVID-19 | Airborne | Recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Meningitis | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
Specific Vaccine Information
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close personal contact. To prevent it, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated with the hepatitis A vaccine are crucial steps recommended by the PHAC.
- Rabies – The rabies virus is a deadly threat that spreads through bites and scratches from infected animals. Preventing rabies involves timely vaccination, avoiding contact with wildlife and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten. The rabies vaccine is instrumental in developing immunity and safeguarding against this fatal disease.
- Hepatitis B – The hepatitis B virus causes liver infection, spreading through contact with infected bodily fluids. Prevention measures include safe practices and, notably, hepatitis B vaccination. This vaccine effectively triggers the immune system to produce antibodies, offering reliable, long-term protection against the virus.
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) – Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of vaccination. The MMR vaccine, given in two doses, is the key to personal and public health safety. It strengthens immunity, minimizing the risk of infection, and is a critical component in halting the spread of these contagious viruses.
As a developed country, the United Kingdom has few health risks. Follow the same precautions you would in the United States to healthy throughout your trip.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Other Ways to Stay Healthy in United Kingdom
Prevent Bug Bites in United Kingdom
Keep bugs at bay by dressing smartly and applying EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or OLE. In case of a bug bite, cleanse the area, refrain from scratching, and find relief with readily available remedies. If symptoms worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Food and Water Safety in United Kingdom
Stay healthy overseas by favoring cooked and hot dishes, reputable eateries, and practicing good hand hygiene. Stick to bottled or sealed beverages and use caution with tap water. Enjoy hot drinks and alcohol responsibly. To steer clear of travellers’ diarrhea, follow these strategies: eat safe foods, drink treated water, maintain hand hygiene, consider probiotics, and be discerning about local cuisine.
Do I Need a Passport or Visa for the United Kingdom?
A passport which is valid for at least the expected duration of stay is required to enter the UK. This also applies to those travelling to Northern Ireland from other parts of the UK. A tourist visa is not required for stays under 6 months. A business visa or work permit is required, even for those planning to do part time or unpaid work.
United Kingdom Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to the United Kingdom? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of the United Kingdom and Canadian Travel and Tourism
Due to the United Kingdom leaving the European Union, entry and exit policy may change. Be sure to check this page to see if requirements have been updated.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What Is the Climate Like in the United Kingdom?
The climate in the United Kingdom is temperament with rainfall year round. Depending on the season, the temperature varies.
The winds come from the southwest and the mild and wet weather comes from the Atlantic Ocean. Eastern parts of the UK are generally drier as they are sheltered from the winds.
The currents from the Atlantic Ocean are warmed up by the Gulf Stream. Because this occurs, the winters are mild in the west where the winters are wet. Snowfall happens in the winter and early spring. The summer season is warmest in the southeast of England and coolest in the North.
Is It Safe to Travel to the United Kingdom?
Travellers should be aware of their surroundings in public places. It’s important to listen to the rules of the authorities and pay attention to the media and other local sources. Authorities have increased in public places for safety reasons.
pick-pocketing and petty theft can happen in tourist areas. Take precautions to avoid losing important items.
Travellers should also be aware of the level of terrorist threat by the United Kingdom Security Service.
There have also been some terrorist threats in Northern Ireland. Religious violence and dissent republican activity have been going on. Security forces and banks have been targeted. Their annual parades are another potential threat to terrorist attacks during the seasons of April to August.
The Eagle and Child
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travellers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travellers’ diarrhea kit!
There are so many places to see while in the United Kingdom. If you’re looking to relax and have a good drink at a place of history, The Eagle and Child is where you want to be. This pub is nicknamed the Bird and the Baby and is located at St. Giles Street in Oxford, England.
It is famous for the associating with the Inkling’s Writers Group, which included J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis and other authors, professors, and thinkers. It was here that some of these famous authors discussed the stories they were writing.
The pub has unique character that you won’t find anywhere else. It shows off pictures and prints of famous books on the walls of their establishment. They have an eclectic variety of ales and great pub food that is served with British hospitality.
What Should I Take to the United Kingdom?
When you travel to the United Kingdom, there are a few things you should take with you on your trip.
- Travellers’ Diarrhea Kit — While it may not seem like it, this single item can be a lifesaver. Up to 70 percent of travellers will have this symptom, including travellers to developed countries.
- Rain Gear — Because of the large amount of rainfall consider bringing some kind of rain gear. Whether it’s an umbrella, poncho or waterproof jacket, you’ll be happy you have it.
- Pack for Health and Safety — You should pack what you know you’ll need to stay healthy in the UK. Medications and supplies are just a few things you should think about taking with you. You might also need supplies to prevent illness or injury, and a first aid kit.
Canadian Embassy in the United Kingdom
If you find yourself in need of help while travelling in the United Kingdom, there is a Canadian Embassy in the capital city of London.
High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom
Canada House, Trafalgar Square,
London, SW1Y 5BJ, England, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0) 207 004 6000
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start travelling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for the United Kingdom
“The nurse was very knowledgeable and thorough. Very informative about what we’d need (and wouldn’t) for the UK.”
“The nurse was very helpful in addressing all the vaccine requirements required for my trip to Britain. She did not appear rushed and took the time to get it right. We were able to set up all my appointments and obtain all the necessary shots and pills within the time frame to go on my trip.”
“The nurse was amazing. Quick, efficient, knowledgeable and personable. I will be sure to recommend this clinic to anyone I know travelling to the UK.”
“Very knowledgeable and got what I needed as a minimum for the UK. Personable and easy going. Definitely recommended.”
US – English
CA – English
Rest of World – English
