A highly contagious infection dangerous for newborns, we offer private vaccination for adults, children, and pregnant women.
(combined DTaP/Tdap)
No GP referral needed. Book your appointment online today.
Your pharmacist reviews your vaccination history and confirms eligibility.
A combined pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, and polio injection given.
Leave with your vaccination record updated and aftercare advice.
Ongoing outbreaks make vaccination advisable, especially for healthcare workers or those spending extended time with children.
Periodic outbreaks occur across several states. Check your booster if travelling for work, study, or childcare settings.
Pertussis remains a public health concern. Boosters are advised for travellers visiting family or spending time in close-contact settings.
Whooping cough is present across Sub-Saharan Africa. Vaccination is advised for those in community or healthcare settings near young children.
Whooping cough is highly contagious, spread through coughs and sneezes. One infected person can infect up to 17 unvaccinated contacts. It can be transmitted prior to the onset of symptoms, and many adults are asymptomatic carriers as symptoms can be mild in vaccinated persons.
It starts with cold-like symptoms and leads to severe coughing fits with the signature high-pitched whoop. Infants may not have the whoop and can turn blue and have trouble breathing. In infants under 6 months of age, it can be fatal. In adults, the cough may last for 2 to 3 months.
This combined vaccine protects against whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus, and polio. It is safe for pregnant women and those around newborns. A single booster dose is recommended every 5–10 years.
Side effects are generally mild, including soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, fatigue, and headache, resolving within a few days. Serious reactions are extremely rare. Your pharmacist will advise on what to watch for before you leave.
Vaccination during pregnancy is the most effective way to protect newborns too young to be vaccinated. Antibodies cross the placenta, giving your baby passive immunity in those critical first weeks.
The NHS recommends vaccination between 16 and 32 weeks for the best antibody transfer, though later vaccination can still provide some protection. The vaccine is inactivated, with an extensive safety record in UK pregnancies since 2012.
Our private service offers faster access for pregnant women who cannot arrange NHS vaccinations in time.
Newborns and infants under 6 months
Unvaccinated infants rely on maternal passive immunity and local herd protection.
Pregnant women who are unvaccinated
Unvaccinated mothers cannot transfer vital antibodies, leaving newborns vulnerable.
Unvaccinated grandparents and close household contacts
Close contacts with mild symptoms often unknowingly infect infants.
Healthcare workers in contact with infants
Healthcare workers face high exposure and have caused neonatal unit outbreaks.
Adults whose immunity has waned significantly
Childhood immunity fades; adults need a booster every 10 years.
Travellers to high-risk countries or outbreak regions
Exposure risk increases during outbreaks or in areas with low vaccination rates.
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.
In the UK, the pertussis vaccine is only available as a combined injection (protecting against diphtheria, tetanus, and polio), which provides broader protection in one dose.
Yes. Vaccination is highly recommended between 16 and 32 weeks to provide your baby with passive immunity. While free on the NHS, our private clinic offers faster access.
Immunity typically lasts 5 to 10 years. Boosters are advised for adults who haven’t been vaccinated in 5 years and are in close contact with newborns.
Yes, our clinic provides boosters for those who have completed their primary course. Your pharmacist can discuss your history during your consultation.
Pregnant women (16–32 weeks) are eligible for free NHS vaccines. Private boosters are available for adults unable to access them via their GP.
Yes. Our clinic provides boosters for those who have finished a primary vaccination course. Your pharmacist will review your history during the consultation if you are unsure.
The NHS provides free vaccination for pregnant women (16–32 weeks). We offer a private booster service for adults who cannot access it via their GP. Your pharmacist will advise on your eligibility during your visit.
Booking your appointment is quick and easy. We guide you through each step so you know exactly what to expect.
Whooping cough is preventable. Whether you’re pregnant, planning to be, or spending time with a new baby. Book your appointment today and leave fully protected.
