Hepatitis A spreads faster than most expect; single-dose protection is available in Colchester; no referral is required.
(Avaxim / Havrix / Vaqta)
One appointment, no waiting; your pharmacist takes care of everything and explains it well before you leave.
No referrals needed. Book your appointment online in.
Single injection. Appointments take around 20 minutes.
One dose now, booster for extended protection.
Country guidance is updated regularly. All recommendations are tailored to your route at appointment.
A liver infection transmitted through contaminated food and water, entirely preventable, often contracted by unvaccinated travellers.
Hepatitis A spreads through dirty food, water, or poor hygiene. It often happens at restaurants or street stalls. Common risks include raw salads, unpeeled fruit, shellfish, or ice made from unsafe tap water.
Symptoms like tiredness, nausea, loss of appetite, and stomach pain usually start two to six weeks after exposure. It can be very serious for adults. If you feel unwell after traveling, see a doctor.
Several hepatitis A vaccines are available; your pharmacist confirms the right option for your age and health history.
Avaxim is a third brand of hepatitis A vaccine that may be available at this clinic. Your pharmacist will check stock levels and suitability for your age and health profile.
Havrix is an inactivated hepatitis A vaccine indicated for adults (16+) and children (1-15). The primary dose protects within 4 weeks; the booster at 6–12 months extends protection to 25 years.
Vaqta is an inactivated hepatitis A vaccine for children (1 to 17) and adults (18+), given on the same two-dose schedule. The pre-filled syringes contain latex, so tell your pharmacist if you have a latex allergy.
Vaccine side effects are usually mild and don’t last long. You may feel soreness, redness, or swelling where you got the shot. A slight fever, headache, or tiredness is possible. Serious reactions are rare.
Going to South Asia, Africa or Central America? Your pharmacist will confirm suitability at appointment
Your destination, trip length, and food habits all shape how much exposure risk you actually face.
Travellers eating local or street food
Exposure to unhygienic food is the primary transmission route.
Backpackers and budget travellers
Frequent use of low-cost dining and lodging with inconsistent hygiene.
Those visiting friends and family abroad
Reliance on home-cooked meals in high-risk private households.
Long-stay travellers
Prolonged stays significantly increase cumulative exposure risk.
Travellers with chronic liver disease
Liver conditions heighten the risk of severe complications.
Before travel
Protection builds within 2 weeks
Booster dose
6 to 12 months after initial
Up to 25 years for those at ongoing risk
If booster is overdue
Discuss with a pharmacist.
An assessment is needed before proceeding
Vaccination is your best defence; good food and water habits further reduce your risk of exposure.
Every appointment is led by a pharmacist who has spent a career doing this.
Mandeep Sandhu has been a pharmacist since 2006, qualifying at Aberdeen. Travel health has been the real focus of his career. He has an independent prescriber qualification with yellow fever accreditation and NaTHNaC training and has spent over a decade helping people travel safely.
He is a keen traveller himself and understands that no two trips are the same. Every patient receives the time and advice that their trip actually needs.
Qualified pharmacist registered with the GPhC
Authorised to prescribe and supply travel medications independently
Certified to administer the yellow fever vaccine and issue the ICVP certificate
Travel health training aligned with UK national guidance
Colchester Travel Clinic is easy to reach with free on-site parking and appointments available six days a week.
We’re an independent, pharmacist-led clinic where you’re seen by the same team from first appointment to final vaccine no transfers, no chase.
Most people have protective antibody levels within two weeks of their first dose. Ideally, get vaccinated at least two weeks before you travel to allow full protection to develop.
No. Your first dose gives strong protection for your trip. The booster dose, given 6 to 12 months later, extends that protection to up to 25 years for those at ongoing risk but is not needed before your initial trip.
Yes, in most cases. Certain formulations are not suitable for PKU patients, but VAQTA is an alternative that is not affected by this restriction. Please inform the pharmacist when booking so the correct product is prepared for your appointment.
If you have had a confirmed hepatitis A infection in the past, you may already have natural immunity. Your pharmacist will assess this at your consultation before recommending vaccination.
Yes. The vaccine is suitable for children aged 1 year and over. Your pharmacist will confirm eligibility and the appropriate formulation based on your child’s age at your consultation.
Booking your appointment is quick and easy. We guide you through each step so you know exactly what to expect.
Hepatitis A is highly preventable. Don’t let it ruin your trip. Book online now to be seen in Colchester within days.
