If you are headed to the UK you are probably visiting England, Scotland, North Ireland, or Wales. Although they all share many similarities, there are distinct differences between each region. With plenty of history and culture, there is no shortage of castles, green rolling hills, or rainbows in any of the UK regions.
Do you need Vaccines to travel to the United Kingdom (UK)?
Yes. The CDC recommends the following vaccines if you are traveling to the United Kingdom (UK). Some are recommended however some may be required. The vaccinations include Meningitis, Chickenpox, TDAP (Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis), Flu (Influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), Polio, Shingles, COVID-19, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Measles, and Rabies.
Recommended Travel Vaccines for the United Kingdom (UK)
| Recommended Travel Vaccine | Vaccine Details |
|---|---|
| COVID-19 | It is recommended that all travelers be up to date with their COVID-19 Vaccine, whether it be first, second, or booster shots. |
| Hepatitis A | The CDC recommends the Hepatitis A vaccination to travelers of all ages. Please call for specifics. |
| Hepatitis B | The CDC recommends the Hepatitis B vaccination to travelers of all ages. |
| Rabies | A Rabies vaccine would be necessary if you were planning to be around dogs or wildlife. Rabid dogs are common in many countries. Reference the above map to verify. |
Routine Vaccines when traveling to the United Kingdom (UK)
| Routine Vaccines | Vaccine Details |
|---|---|
| Chickenpox | The CDC recommends that children under the age of 13 have 2 doses as long as the second dose is 3 months after the first dose. If over 13, get doses at least 28 days apart. |
| TDAP (Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis) | It is recommended that everyone get the TDAP vaccine according to the CDC. |
| Flu (influenza) | Based on CDC recommendations, anyone 6 months or older should receive the flu vaccine. |
| Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) | The CDC recommends a dose of the MMR Vaccine to infants from 6 to 11 months that are traveling. |
| Polio | The CDC recommends Polio Vaccines in booster doses to adults who received their initial shot as a child. The series is recommended for those that are unvaccinated or do not know their vaccination status. |
| Shingles | The CDC recommends the shingles vaccine for adults ages 50 years and older and the doses should be given 2 to 6 months apart. |
| Meningitis | Recommended for any individual who does not have the vaccination and or is considered a risk. |
| Pneumonia | There are multiple types of pneumonia vaccines meant to protect against pneumococcal disease. Review each vaccine on the CDC website. |
