Preparing to travel to India

Posted on December 11, 2014 at 4:24 pm

Travelling to India has become increasingly popular over the last 5 or 10 years. The backpackers and gap year students have been visiting in their droves since the 1960s but it is now becoming a destination for the more ordinary, more mature, yet adventurous tourist who wants more from a holiday than just lounging by the side of a pool near Alicante.

However, it is absolutely vital to make sure all routine vaccinations are up to date before departure. In addition, some vaccinations, like hepatitis A and B, require a course of 3 injections over 3 months so do allow enough time for this to happen. Other courses and boosters which are also highly advised include tetanus, diphtheria and typhoid. Depending on the area to be visited, you may also require a course of anti-malarial tablets and to be vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, especially if you are spending prolonged time in rural areas.

If you are staying in India for a long time, it is also worth considering a rabies shot too. However, providing you allow enough time before departure, your GP or practice nurse will be able to give up-to-date relevant health advice for the area of India to which you are travelling.

Posted in Holidays