Health: Jabs

As soon as you book a holiday, check whether jabs are needed. They should be done at least two months before you travel, but get immunisations for last-minute trips as well.

Useful reminders

• As a rule, jabs must be paid for. Some NHS practices may not charge for certain injections
• The time of year can affect how many jabs you'll need for a destination
• Children and babies may also need jabs for some countries
• Immunisations are best avoided during the first three months of pregnancy
• Ensure your jabs for tetanus, polio and childhood illnesses are up to date

Where to go first

The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) will send you printed information about which jabs, if any, you'll need for your holiday. Its 24-hour automated helpline number is 09068 224 100 (60p/min). Take the immunisation information to a GP or visit a travel health clinic.

The diseases

HEPATITIS A: A single jab protects against this common viral disease, usually spread via water. The vaccine lasts for up to 10 years.

HEPATITIS B: This viral disease of the liver is common in some tropical countries. It's passed on through intercourse and contaminated needles and syringes. Jabs aren't essential unless you think you'll be at risk.

TYPHOID: This is common in places where food and water hygiene is poor. A new single-dose vaccine is said to cause few side effects.

YELLOW FEVER: This jab can leave you with a sore arm and slight fever, but it's essential for certain holiday spots. Some countries also demand a certificate proving you've been immunised, particularly if you're arriving from a "yellow fever zone". The single-dose lasts for 10 years.

CHOLERA: Holidaymakers don't usually need a jab for this, unless travelling to areas where cholera certificates are required.

RABIES: Jabs are only recommended for travellers who plan to stay a long time in a potentially infected area. Three injections are given within a month before departure. If bitten by a suspect animal abroad, you'll need two more booster shots.

Jabs for children

Youngsters need the same jabs as adults if they're going to a destination that demands them. They must also be up-to-date with childhood immunisations for polio, tetanus, mumps, measles and rubella (MMR).

Toddlers aged one and older can be immunised against hepatitis A and pre-exposure rabies, if necessary. Yellow fever jabs can be given from nine months. Those aged two and above can be immunised against typhoid and meningococcal meningitis.

Further information

British Airways Travel Clinics are a countrywide service offering advice and immunisations to the public. Location line: 08706 062782

For a free Health Advice For Travellers booklet from the Department of Health call 0800 555 777 (8am-6pm, Monday to Friday).

The Department of Health website lists inoculation requirements for dozens of countries.: http://www.doh.gov.uk/traveladvice