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Not an emergency service. If you or someone else is seriously unwell — for example chest pain, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding or collapse — call 999. For urgent advice when it is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.

Recovery & Aftercare Guide

Travel vaccinations

Vaccinations given after a travel risk assessment. Minimal aftercare.

Important. Your individual instructions from your treating clinician take precedence over this general information. If anything here differs from what your clinician has told you, follow your clinician’s advice and contact the hospital if you are unsure.

Overview

Travel vaccinations are given after a risk assessment based on your destinations, itinerary, activities and medical history.

Some vaccines need to be given weeks before travel, and some require more than one dose, so book early.

Before your procedure

  • Book well ahead of travel. Some courses take several weeks to complete.
  • Bring your full itinerary, including rural stops and stopovers.
  • Bring a record of previous vaccinations if you have one.
  • Tell the team about all medicines, any immune conditions, and whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Tell the team about previous vaccine reactions.
  • Wear a top with sleeves that roll up easily. More than one injection may be needed.

Aftercare

Observation

You may be asked to wait a short time in the clinic after vaccination.

Injection site

Soreness, redness or a small lump at the site for a day or two is common.

General symptoms

Mild fever, headache or tiredness in the first 48 hours can occur with some vaccines and settles on its own.

Activity

No restrictions. Avoid heavy use of the injected arm the same day if it is sore.

Alcohol

No specific restriction, though moderation helps if you feel unwell.

Records

Keep the vaccination record you are given. Some countries require proof of certain vaccinations at the border.

Completing courses

If a course was started, complete it as scheduled, even after you return.

Red flags — when to seek help

These lists are not exhaustive. Trust your judgement and seek advice if you are worried.

Emergency Call 999 or go to your nearest emergency department

  • Difficulty breathing, throat or facial swelling, or a widespread rash shortly after vaccination
  • Feeling faint with a rapid heartbeat shortly after vaccination

Contact us Contact the hospital, or call NHS 111 out of hours

  • Spreading redness, heat or swelling at the site after 48 hours
  • A fever above 38°C that persists beyond 48 hours
  • Any symptom you were specifically warned about for a particular vaccine

Tower Bridge Hospital, 97–99 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1DT. Telephone 020 7916 0029. If in doubt and the situation is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.

Frequently asked questions

How far ahead should I book?

Ideally 6 to 8 weeks before travel. Some courses need longer; last-minute vaccination is still often worthwhile.

Can I have several vaccines at once?

Usually yes. The clinician will advise on what can be given together.

Will I need a certificate?

Some countries require proof for certain vaccines. This is covered in your risk assessment.

Is malaria covered by a vaccine?

Malaria prevention is not a vaccination. It is discussed separately as part of your travel assessment.

More information

Clinical reviewer
Dr Haydar Bolat, Clinical Director
Review date
21 July 2026
Review by
21 July 2027
Version
1.0
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