Travel vaccination

COVID-19 Vaccination

A private COVID-19 vaccination for travellers and individuals who want protection outside the NHS programme, available at Crewe Travel Clinic.

Who it is for

Adults wanting protection outside the NHS programme, including travellers and those visiting clinically vulnerable friends or relatives

Number of doses

Usually a single top-up dose for those already vaccinated; the schedule depends on your vaccination history

When to have it

From around 2 weeks before travel, so protection has time to build

How long protection lasts

Several months; protection wanes over time and further doses may be advised

How it is given

A single injection, usually into the upper arm

Price

Private COVID-19 vaccination — price confirmed at booking

Quick answer

A private COVID-19 vaccination protects against severe illness from the SARS-CoV-2 virus and is available at Crewe Travel Clinic for travellers and individuals who want protection outside the NHS programme. Protection builds over 1–2 weeks, so it is best arranged before travel.

About COVID-19 Vaccination

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While most people recover, it can cause severe illness in older adults and those with underlying health conditions, and an infection can easily disrupt travel plans.

A private COVID-19 vaccination helps reduce your risk of serious illness and is sometimes requested by travellers visiting destinations or attending events where proof of vaccination or extra protection is advisable. Our travel health nurse can advise whether a dose is appropriate for your circumstances.

Timing

From around 2 weeks before travel

Protection builds over the 1–2 weeks following vaccination, so book ahead of departure where possible.

Effectiveness

Strong protection against severe illness

Vaccination substantially reduces the risk of hospitalisation and serious complications.

Duration

Months — boosters as advised

Protection wanes over time; further doses may be advised for at-risk groups or ahead of higher-risk travel.

Signs & symptoms

  • A high temperature or feeling hot and shivery
  • A new, continuous cough
  • Loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Tiredness, body aches and headache
  • Sore throat, blocked or runny nose

Who should consider a COVID-19 vaccination?

It may be considered by travellers wanting added protection before a trip, people who are not eligible for an NHS dose when they want one, and those visiting friends or relatives who are clinically vulnerable. Your nurse will confirm suitability at your appointment.

High Risk Areas

COVID-19 circulates worldwide. Some destinations and events may still request proof of vaccination or recommend up-to-date protection.

Traveller Risk Factors

Older travellers, those with underlying medical conditions, and anyone wanting to reduce the chance of illness disrupting an important trip.

Who should have this vaccine

A private COVID-19 vaccination may be considered by adults who want protection outside the NHS programme. It is most relevant for older travellers, people with underlying health conditions, and anyone wanting to lower the chance of illness disrupting an important trip. It may also be chosen by those who wish to reduce the risk of passing infection to a clinically vulnerable friend or relative. Eligibility for NHS doses changes seasonally, so your nurse will confirm whether a private dose is appropriate for you.

  • Older travellers and those with underlying medical conditions
  • People not currently eligible for an NHS dose who want one
  • Travellers wanting added protection before an important trip
  • Those visiting or caring for clinically vulnerable people

The vaccination course

COVID-19 vaccines are given as an injection, usually into the upper arm. For most adults who have been vaccinated before, a single top-up dose is given to refresh protection. The exact schedule depends on your age, health and previous vaccination history, so your nurse will agree the right approach with you at the appointment. Aim to have your dose at least 2 weeks before travel, as protection builds over the following 1 to 2 weeks.

  • Given as a single injection into the upper arm
  • Usually one top-up dose for those previously vaccinated
  • Schedule tailored to your age, health and vaccination history
  • Best arranged at least 2 weeks before departure

How long does protection last

Vaccination substantially reduces the risk of hospitalisation and serious complications, and this protection builds over the 1 to 2 weeks after your dose. Protection against severe illness lasts for several months but wanes over time, particularly in older and clinically vulnerable people. Further doses may therefore be advised seasonally for at-risk groups or ahead of higher-risk travel. Your nurse can advise on timing for any future doses.

  • Strong protection against severe illness and hospitalisation
  • Protection builds over 1 to 2 weeks after vaccination
  • Lasts several months and reduces gradually over time
  • Further doses may be advised for at-risk groups

Possible side effects

Most side effects of COVID-19 vaccination are mild and short-lived, settling within a day or two. The most common are a sore or heavy arm where the injection was given, tiredness, headache and muscle aches. Some people develop a mild fever or feel generally unwell for a short time. Serious reactions are very rare. If you feel unwell or have any concerns after your vaccination, seek advice from a pharmacist, NHS 111 or your GP.

  • Sore, heavy or tender arm at the injection site
  • Tiredness, headache and aching muscles
  • Mild fever or feeling generally unwell
  • Serious allergic reactions are very rare

Frequently asked questions

Medically reviewed by Crewe Travel Clinic clinical team · Last reviewed 13 June 2026

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