About Dengue
As one of the deadliest viral diseases, rabies poses a significant risk for travellers venturing into certain parts of the world. Understanding the importance of rabies vaccination can safeguard your health and ensure a worry-free journey. At Purley Travel Clinic, our expert pharmacy team, hailing from one of the longest-running pharmacies in South London, is here to provide you with the essential vaccinations and advice you need. Let's dive into everything you need to know about rabies vaccination.
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What is dengue and why travellers should care
Dengue is a virus spread mainly by daytime‑biting Aedes mosquitoes. Many infections cause mild flu‑like symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and rash; some people have no symptoms at all. A small number of cases become severe and need hospital treatment. Risk depends on where you go, how long you stay and local transmission at the time of travel — cities and semi‑urban areas in parts of Asia, the Americas, the Caribbean and Africa are commonly affected. Because dengue can be unpredictable, travellers should reduce mosquito exposure and get specialist advice if heading to regions with known dengue activity.
About the dengue vaccine and who it’s for
Qdenga is the dengue vaccine licensed in the UK for people aged 4 years and over. UK guidance currently supports its use mainly for people who have had a prior dengue infection and who are planning travel to areas with ongoing risk, or for those occupationally exposed (for example, laboratory staff). The vaccine contains live, weakened virus, so it isn’t suitable for everyone — it’s not recommended for people who are immunosuppressed, pregnant or breastfeeding, or for children under 4.
Before vaccination, we’ll check your travel plans, medical history and any previous dengue tests. Blood tests that look for past dengue infection are sometimes needed but are not always conclusive and are usually provided privately. If vaccination is appropriate, we’ll explain the dose schedule and timing so you have the best possible protection before you travel.
Where dengue vaccination might be relevant
Dengue occurs across many tropical and subtropical countries — particularly in parts of South and Southeast Asia, South and Central America, the Caribbean and some regions in Africa. It tends to occur in urban and semi‑urban areas and outbreaks can change year to year. Vaccination is most relevant for travellers going to areas with ongoing transmission or a current outbreak. It is not usually recommended for trips to places where only isolated or sporadic cases have been reported. If you’re unsure whether your destination carries a dengue risk, bring your itinerary and dates and we’ll advise on the right precautions and whether vaccination should be considered.
Ready to check your need for dengue vaccination?
If you’re travelling from North London and want clear advice on dengue vaccination, call North London Travel Clinics on 020 8450 7873 to discuss your trip and arrange an appointment. We run clinics at Zaxgate Pharmacy, Brent St, London NW4 2EL and at Frank Wreford Pharmacy, 234 Neasden Ln, Neasden, London NW10 0AA. Our teams provide friendly, private travel vaccine assessments, explain any necessary tests, and help plan the best timing before travel. We regularly help customers from Wembley, Harrow, Brent, Neasden, Cricklewood and Finchley — if you need an evening or weekend appointment, please ask when you call.
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