While India doesn’t require most travellers to show proof of vaccination at the border*, that doesn’t mean you should skip your travel shots. Without proper protection, you could be at risk of picking up serious illnesses that are rare in the UK but far more common in parts of India. 

Luckily, it’s quick and easy to get protected, and Superdrug is here to help. Below, we’ll guide you through the recommended vaccinations for India and how to get them through our UK-wide clinics. 

Do I need vaccinations to travel to India? 

While you won’t be turned away at the airport for not having certain vaccines (with the exception of Yellow Fever, as detailed below), it is important to note that travel vaccinations for India are sometimes recommended. 

Serious, potentially life-threatening conditions like Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Tetanus are more common in parts of India than the UK, particularly in rural or remote areas where access to clean water and medical care may be limited. Even in cities, unexpected illness can spoil your plans and leave you feeling severely unwell.  

Travel advice for India provide essential protection against these diseases, allowing you to enjoy your trip, stay well throughout your travels, and explore India safely. 

Which travel services are needed for India? 

The services recommended for India depend on where in the country you’re going, how long you’ll be there, and your health. That’s why it’s best to speak to a healthcare professional before you go.  

Here’s a rundown of the most common vaccines* suggested for India and why they matter: 

• Hepatitis A – Protects against a virus often spread through contaminated food or water. 

• Typhoid – Protects against a serious bacterial infection spread through poor sanitation. 

• Tetanus – Protects against a serious infection spread through cuts or wounds. 

Depending on your itinerary and risk level, you may be advised to consider additional jabs for India, including vaccines for rabies, Japanese encephalitis, cholera, or Hepatitis B. You can find more information about when these might be necessary on the Vaccinations for India NHS page. 

You may also be recommended to take anti-malaria tablets if you’re visiting high-risk regions. Not all parts of India carry the same malaria risk and these change through the year, so your health adviser will provide guidance based on your itinerary and route. 

What is a Yellow Fever certificate, and do I need one for India? 

A Yellow Fever certificate, also known as an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis*** (ICVP), is an official document that proves you’ve been vaccinated against Yellow Fever**, a serious virus spread by mosquitoes in some parts of Africa and South America. 

India itself does not have Yellow Fever, so you won’t need the vaccine unless you’re arriving from (or transiting through) a country where Yellow Fever is present. If that applies to you, you’ll need to show a valid Yellow Fever certificate on arrival or risk being denied entry or quarantined.  

Superdrug offers Yellow Fever vaccinations and official ICVP certification. Just let us know when you book your other travel shots for India. 

 

How far in advance should I get vaccinated before travelling to India? 

It’s best to get your travel shots for India at least 6 to 8 weeks**** before you fly. This gives your body time to build up immunity and ensures you have enough time to complete courses of vaccines that need multiple doses. For example: 

• Cholera is given as two doses, one week apart. 

• Hepatitis B requires a course of three doses. 

• Yellow Fever takes at least 10 days to work** and provide protection. 

Even if you’re travelling last minute, it’s still worth booking an appointment with a travel health advisor to get your vaccinations for India. Some protection is better than none. 

How much do travel services for India cost? 

The most up to date costs for recommended vaccines for India at Superdrug Health Clinics can be found here. 

• Hepatitis A – 1 dose 

• Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio (combined) – 1 dose 

• Typhoid – 1 dose 

• Yellow Fever – 1r dose 

• Cholera – 2 doses 

• Hepatitis B – 3 doses 

• Japanese Encephalitis – 2 doses 

• Rabies – 3 doses 

Travel consultations are available at all Superdrug Health Clinics, so you can get expert advice tailored to your health status and itinerary before you start your India vaccination course. 

 

Why choose Superdrug Health Clinics? 

At Superdrug, we make it easy to get expert travel health advice and protection ahead of your holiday. Here’s why thousands of travellers trust us every year: 

• Over 80 clinics nationwide with convenient locations  

• Nurse-led appointments tailored to your destination and travel plans 

• Clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees 

• Easy online booking with same-day appointments often available 

• Support with malaria prevention and Yellow Fever certification 

Ready to travel safely? Visit our Vaccinations for India page to learn more about what you may need, or find a Superdrug Health Clinic near you and book your travel vaccinations today. 

 

* https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/105/india#Vaccine_Recommendations 

**Yellow fever – NHS 

***International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) YELLOW FEVER ZONE 

****Travel vaccination advice – NHS 

India – Fit for Travel