Prepare for Your Journey with Expert Health Advice and Travel Vaccinations
In association with Oxford Vaccination Centre
Wheatley Pharmacy: The Premier Travel Clinics in Oxford
Wheatley Pharmacy is the largest single site independent pharmacy in Oxfordshire and your go-to travel clinics in Oxford. We offer a range of clinical services including travel vaccinations, ear wax removal, and more. Our focus is to provide top-notch healthcare services to the people of the United Kingdom, particularly in Oxford.
Our Vaccination Services
At Wheatley Pharmacy, we offer a comprehensive range of standard travel vaccinations to ensure your health and well-being during your journey. Our experienced healthcare professionals provide expert advice tailored to your specific destination and individual needs. Some of the vaccinations we offer include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Yellow Fever, Typhoid, and more.​Book your vaccination today and travel with confidence knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to stay protected.
Vaccine Pricing & Schedule
* Once the full vaccination schedule is completed, you will develop a certain level of immunity; however, it is important to note that the vaccine achieves its maximum effectiveness when given sufficient time to activate in the body
Vaccination Information
Hepatitis A
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Hepatitis A is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV), which is usually transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water or through close contact with an infected person. The virus is commonly found in the faeces of infected individuals and can spread easily in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene. Symptoms of hepatitis A include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Most cases of hepatitis A resolve on their own without specific treatment, but it is important to seek medical attention for proper management, rest, and hydration. Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended, especially for travellers to regions where the virus is endemic or individuals at higher risk of exposure.
Hepatitis B
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Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that primarily affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and is usually transmitted through contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person. This can happen through unprotected sexual contact, sharing of needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. It can also be spread through contaminated medical equipment and procedures. Hepatitis B can lead to both acute and chronic liver disease, and symptoms may include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and nausea. Travelers to regions with a high prevalence of hepatitis B should consider vaccination to protect themselves from this potentially life-threatening disease. Safe sex practices and avoiding sharing needles or personal items that may come into contact with blood or body fluids are essential precautions to prevent transmission during travel.
Meningitis
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Meningitis is a serious inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections, with the most common types being viral and bacterial. Viral meningitis is typically less severe and often resolves on its own, while bacterial meningitis is more severe and can lead to life-threatening complications. The bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae type b are among the most common causes of bacterial meningitis. Travelers should be aware of the risk of meningitis in certain regions and consider vaccinations against specific bacterial strains if recommended, practice good personal hygiene, and seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light during their travels.
Tick Borne Encephalitis
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Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the central nervous system and is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. The virus responsible for TBE is a member of the Flavivirus family. TBE-carrying ticks are commonly found in forested areas and grasslands, particularly in certain regions of Europe and Asia. When a tick infected with the virus bites a human, the virus can be transmitted, leading to flu-like symptoms initially. However, in some cases, the infection can progress to a more severe form, causing inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) with symptoms such as headache, fever, confusion, and even paralysis. Travelers planning to visit areas with known TBE risk should take precautions, including wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, and considering TBE vaccination, especially if engaging in outdoor activities in tick-prone regions.
Chicken Pox
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Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through direct contact with the fluid from the blisters of an infected individual. Chickenpox typically starts with a rash of itchy, red spots that develop into fluid-filled blisters, accompanied by mild fever and malaise. While most cases of chickenpox are relatively mild, it can lead to complications in certain populations, such as pregnant women, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Travelers, especially those who have not been previously infected or vaccinated, should take necessary precautions to prevent exposure to the virus and consider vaccination before traveling to areas with reported cases of chickenpox.
Polio
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Polio, also known as poliomyelitis, is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. It primarily affects the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis, with the potential for permanent disability or even death. The virus spreads through the faecal-oral route, often through contaminated food, water, or direct contact with an infected person. As a traveller, it is essential to be aware of the risk of polio in certain regions and ensure vaccination against the disease. Maintaining good hygiene practices, including handwashing and consuming safe food and water, can also help reduce the risk of exposure during travel.
Typhoid
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Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi. It is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water, especially in regions with poor sanitation and hygiene practices. Travelers to areas with a high incidence of typhoid are at risk of contracting the disease if they consume food or water contaminated with the bacteria. Symptoms of typhoid include high fever, headache, abdominal pain, and a rash. In severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening complications. To protect against typhoid, travellers should practice safe food and water precautions, consider typhoid vaccination options, and maintain good hygiene practices during their journey.
Cholera
Cholera is a severe and potentially life-threatening infectious disease that primarily affects the small intestine. It is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. The bacteria are usually transmitted through contaminated water or food, and the infection is highly contagious in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate access to clean water. Once ingested, the bacteria multiply in the intestine, releasing a toxin that leads to profuse watery diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration. Cholera outbreaks can spread rapidly, particularly in densely populated or overcrowded areas, and can result in significant public health emergencies if not promptly addressed with rehydration and appropriate medical treatment.
Rabies
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Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including humans. It is caused by the rabies virus, which belongs to the Lyssavirus genus. The virus is typically transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly through a bite or scratch. Wild animals such as bats, raccoons, foxes, and skunks are the primary carriers of the rabies virus. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along the nerves to the brain, leading to severe inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Initial symptoms may include fever, headache, and general malaise, but as the disease progresses, it causes aggressive behaviour, confusion, hallucinations, and paralysis. Without immediate post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) after exposure to an infected animal, rabies is almost universally fatal, making prevention through vaccination of both pets and humans crucial in areas where the virus is prevalent.
Yellow Fever
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Yellow fever is a viral disease caused by the yellow fever virus, which belongs to the Flavivirus family. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes aegypti species. Yellow fever can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe and potentially fatal forms of the disease. Symptoms may include high fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). Travelers should be aware of the risk of yellow fever in certain regions and consider vaccination before visiting areas where the disease is prevalent. Additionally, taking preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellents and wearing protective clothing, is essential to reduce the risk of contracting yellow fever during travel.
Diphtheria
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Diphtheria is a potentially severe and highly contagious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the respiratory system and can also affect the skin. The infection spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it easy to transmit in crowded or poorly ventilated areas. Diphtheria can lead to the formation of a thick greyish-white membrane in the throat, which can block the airway and cause difficulty breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as heart and nerve damage. To protect against diphtheria, travellers should ensure they are up-to-date with their diphtheria vaccinations before traveling to regions where the disease is prevalent, especially if they anticipate close contact with local populations or have inadequate access to medical facilities.
Japanese Encephalitis
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**Japanese Encephalitis**, caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), is a serious viral infection prevalent in parts of Asia. Transmitted through mosquito bites, it can lead to encephalitis, causing a range of symptoms from mild fever to severe complications, including paralysis and death. Travelers to affected regions, especially those with extended stays or outdoor activities, should consider vaccination, alongside mosquito bite prevention measures. Consult a healthcare professional or travel clinic to determine if Japanese Encephalitis vaccination is necessary for your specific travel plans.
Shingles
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Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes chickenpox. After recovering from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the nerve cells. However, later in life or during times of weakened immunity, the virus can reactivate and lead to shingles. The main symptom of shingles is a painful rash that typically appears as a band or strip on one side of the body. Before traveling, individuals should be aware of the risk of shingles, especially if they have had chickenpox in the past. It is essential to maintain a healthy immune system and consider vaccination, as well as take preventive measures to reduce the risk of shingles during their journey.
Flu Vaccination
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Influenza Vaccination is a vital shield against the seasonal flu. As a contagious respiratory illness, the flu can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to hospitalization or worse. The flu shot, which is updated annually to match prevalent strains, provides specific immunity, significantly reducing the risk of infection and its complications. It's an essential proactive step to safeguard your health and protect your community, particularly for those at higher risk, such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with specific medical conditions. Early vaccination, typically available before the flu season starts in the fall, is recommended to ensure timely immunity. Consult with your healthcare provider to schedule your flu vaccination and contribute to the prevention of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.
MMR​
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MMR Vaccination is a combination vaccine that guards against measles, mumps, and rubella. It's essential for individual and community health, preventing severe complications from these highly contagious diseases. Typically administered in two doses, it's crucial to ensure you and your family are up-to-date with MMR vaccinations. Verify your status with your healthcare provider and schedule immunizations if necessary to help protect public health.
Tetanus
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Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. The bacteria are commonly found in soil, dust, and animal faeces and can enter the body through open wounds, cuts, or scratches. Tetanus can lead to severe muscle spasms, stiffness, and potentially life-threatening complications. As a traveller, it is important to be aware of the risk of tetanus in certain environments, especially in areas with limited access to medical care or where injuries might occur during outdoor activities. Ensuring that your tetanus vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling is crucial in protecting yourself against this preventable disease.
Patient Stories
Fantastic service from the whole team. Warmly welcomed and dealt with extremely efficiently to get me what I needed for travel. 10minute consultation, a short wait for my medicine and then I was good to go. Highly recommend.
Ben Crowther
Thanks so much for a great service! The pharmacist was so kind, helpful and friendly, my vaccinations didn’t hurt at all. He was really professional and I was able to arrive and leave within five minutes. Thanks for this wonderful service!
Heidi Willcox
The team in Wheatley Pharmacy is very helpful and Pharmacists are very knowledgeable. Very grateful for the service they provide.
Jasjit Singh