At Midnight Pharmacy in Bradford, we regularly meet travellers preparing for trips across Asia, Africa, South America, and beyond. Whether you’re going on a safari, volunteering abroad, or simply relaxing at a beach resort, there’s one thing that often gets overlooked: travel vaccinations.

As a trusted travel vaccine clinic, we’ve heard just about every misconception there is when it comes to protecting your health abroad. From “I’ll be fine if I stay in a hotel” to “I can sort it at the last minute,” these myths can put travellers at serious risk.

In this article, we debunk five of the most common myths about travel vaccines and explain why visiting a dedicated travel vaccine clinic like Midnight Pharmacy can make all the difference before you set off.

Myth 1: “I Don’t Need Vaccines If I’m Only Going for a Short Holiday”

Even short trips can expose you to infections that are uncommon in the UK. Diseases such as hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus don’t care whether you’re away for a week or a month. If you eat contaminated food or get a minor injury, you could be at risk.

Some infections can occur even during stopovers or transit through certain countries. That’s why we recommend checking with our travel vaccine clinic no matter how short your journey may be. It’s always better to be cautious than to spend your holiday feeling unwell—or worse, needing emergency care abroad.

Myth 2: “As Long As I Stay in a Hotel, I Won’t Catch Anything”

Many travellers assume that staying in well-known hotels or resorts eliminates the need for vaccines. While hygiene standards may be better in these places, they cannot guarantee protection from all risks.

Diseases like hepatitis A and typhoid are commonly transmitted through contaminated food and water, which can be found anywhere—hotels included. Even a salad washed in tap water or a drink with ice can expose you to harmful bacteria or viruses.

Vaccines add an essential layer of protection. At our Bradford-based travel vaccine clinic, we assess your destination, planned activities, and accommodation to provide tailored advice.

Myth 3: “I Had Vaccines Years Ago, So I’m Still Protected”

While some vaccinations offer lifelong immunity, many others require boosters. For example:

• –> Tetanus boosters are recommended every 10 years

• –> Typhoid protection lasts about 3 years

• –> Hepatitis A requires a second dose 6–12 months after the first for long-term protection

• –> Yellow fever usually provides lifelong immunity, but a certificate is needed for some destinations

If you’re unsure of your vaccination history, we can help review your records or administer new doses if needed. Don’t assume you’re covered—check with our expert team.

Myth 4: “I’ll Just Get Everything Done at the Airport”

Some travellers leave their vaccinations until the last minute, hoping to sort it out on the way. Unfortunately, many vaccines take time to become effective. For instance:

• –> The hepatitis A vaccine starts working within two weeks

• –> The typhoid vaccine may take up to a week

• –> The Japanese encephalitis vaccine requires two doses spaced 28 days apart

• –> Rabies vaccines are usually given as a three-dose series over several weeks

Leaving it too late may mean you’re travelling without full protection. That’s why we advise booking your travel consultation at least 4–6 weeks before departure. At Midnight Pharmacy’s travel vaccine clinic, we’ll help you stay on track.

Myth 5: “Travel Vaccines Are Only for Remote or Rural Trips”

You don’t need to be trekking through the jungle to be at risk. Urban areas in tropical countries still carry threats such as dengue fever, hepatitis B, and malaria—none of which are restricted to the countryside.

Business travellers, students, and families visiting relatives abroad can all be exposed, even if they’re staying in cities or tourist spots. Travel vaccines are about preparing for local conditions, not just where you’re sleeping at night.

Our clinic sees travellers heading to all types of destinations. Whether you’re off to India, Thailand, Kenya, Brazil, or the Middle East, we’ll help you get protected based on current health recommendations.

Get Protected with Midnight Pharmacy

We’re proud to serve the Bradford community with reliable travel health services, including:

• –> Personalised risk assessments based on your travel itinerary

• –> Convenient access to the cholera vaccine and other travel jabs

• –> Clear, jargon-free advice from qualified healthcare professionals

• –> A welcoming, walk-in service available around your busy schedule

Whether you’re jetting off for leisure, work, or humanitarian purposes, we’re here to make sure you’re protected every step of the way.

Planning a trip abroad? Contact Midnight Pharmacy in Bradford to book your vaccines at our travel vaccine clinic today. Safe travels start with smart preparation.

This blog was written on behalf of Midnight Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.