Visiting Family in India? Don’t Skip These Travel Vaccinations

If you’re planning a trip to India to visit family and friends, it’s easy to feel like you’re heading home — especially if you were born there or have visited many times before. But even familiar destinations can pose serious health risks if you’re not properly protected. Many people assume they don’t need vaccines because they’re returning to a place they know well, but that assumption can leave you exposed.

At Doncaster Chemist, we regularly support travellers heading to India to visit family and friends — and one of the most important things we advise is not to overlook your India travel jabs. Whether you’re travelling for a family wedding, a holiday with children, or a long stay in a rural area, making sure your travel vaccines are up to date is essential for your health and peace of mind.

Why Returning ‘Home’ Doesn’t Mean You’re Protected

One of the biggest myths we hear from VFR (visiting friends and relatives) travellers is: “I’ve been before and was fine.” But that doesn’t mean you’re immune. Immunity to many travel-related diseases wears off over time, and even if you were born in India, living in the UK means your body is no longer regularly exposed to the same pathogens.

In fact, studies show that VFR travellers are more likely to skip vaccinations than holidaymakers — but they often face higher exposure to disease, especially when staying in rural areas or living like locals. Visiting relatives in non-tourist regions, eating home-cooked meals, and staying for extended periods increases your risk of encountering diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis A, and rabies.

Essential India Travel Jabs for VFR Travellers

Here’s what we typically recommend for people visiting India to see family — particularly those travelling for more than a few weeks, going off the beaten path, or travelling with children.

Hepatitis A

A viral infection spread through contaminated food and water. It’s one of the most common vaccine-preventable diseases in India. One dose gives protection for a year, and a second dose (6–12 months later) provides long-term protection.

Typhoid

Caused by bacteria found in contaminated food and water. While tourists might stick to hotels and bottled water, VFR travellers are more likely to eat street food or drink local water — increasing the risk. A single injection lasts for up to three years.

Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio (Td/IPV)

This combination booster is recommended every 10 years. If it’s been a while since your last tetanus shot, we’ll help you get up to date.

Hepatitis B

Particularly important for travellers visiting relatives in healthcare settings or staying long-term. It’s transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. A full course of three injections is recommended.

Rabies

Essential if you’ll be in rural areas, around animals, or staying far from medical help. Dogs, monkeys, and even bats can transmit rabies — and post-bite treatment isn’t always easy to access in India. The vaccine is a course of three injections over three to four weeks.

Japanese Encephalitis

For longer stays in rural parts of India, particularly near rice fields or during the monsoon season, this mosquito-borne virus can be life-threatening. The vaccine is especially relevant for children or those planning outdoor activities.

When Should You Book?

We recommend booking your India travel jabs at least 6–8 weeks before departure. Some vaccines require more than one dose, and others take time to become effective. If you’re travelling during busy school holidays or planning a long stay, the earlier you book, the better.

Even if your departure is coming up soon, it’s not too late. We’ll help prioritise the most urgent vaccinations and advise you on any last-minute precautions you can still take.

What About Children Travelling to India?

If you’re taking children to India, their immune systems are still developing, and they may be at higher risk. We’ll assess their NHS vaccination records and offer age-appropriate travel jabs such as hepatitis A, typhoid (from age 2), and rabies if needed. We also provide practical tips on food safety, mosquito bite prevention, and hydration.

Book Your Travel Vaccines with Doncaster Chemist

At Doncaster Chemist, our travel clinic offers expert advice tailored to you and your family. We’ll assess your travel plans, medical history, and length of stay to recommend the right vaccinations and travel health support. Our services are quick, convenient, and designed for peace of mind — so you can focus on enjoying your time with loved ones.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Arrange your India travel jabs today with Doncaster Chemist and travel with confidence, knowing your health is protected.

Get in touch or drop in to find out more.

This blog was written on behalf of Doncaster Chemist by Pharmacy Mentor.