Screening
Screening is a way of finding out if people have a higher chance of having a health problem, so that early treatment can be offered or information given to help them make informed decisions.
The NHS website gives an overview of screening, with links to the different types of screening offered by the NHS in England.
Vaccinations
Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases. Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children against ill health. They prevent millions of deaths worldwide every year.
However, if people stop having vaccines, it's possible for infectious diseases to quickly spread again.
You can find out more about the routine vaccinations provided by the NHS on this website.
Travel vaccination advice
If you’re travelling outside the UK, you may need extra vaccinations to protect you against serious diseases found abroad.
Travel vaccines can protect against infections such as yellow fever, typhoid and hepatitis A.
Your routine NHS vaccinations may not cover all infections found overseas.
Book an appointment with your GP or a private travel clinic 6 to 8 weeks before you travel, as some vaccines need further doses and time to work.
You may be at higher risk if you’re:
- travelling in rural areas
- backpacking
- staying in hostels or camping
- travelling for a long time (for example, not just a package holiday)
A pre-existing health condition can also increase your risk of infection or complications from a travel-related illness.
Check which vaccines are recommended for your destination on the Travel Health Pro website. You can also find travel vaccination advice on the NHS website.