Travel vaccine
COVID-19
A vaccine that helps protect against severe illness from COVID-19, with seasonal boosters for those at higher risk.
Why COVID-19 protection still matters
COVID-19 has not gone away, and for some people it can still cause serious illness. The virus continues to circulate and change over time, which is why protection is topped up with updated doses rather than a single lifelong jab. Keeping your vaccination current is one of the simplest ways to reduce your chances of a severe infection.
How the vaccine works
The vaccine trains your immune system to recognise the virus so that, if you are exposed, your body can respond quickly. While no vaccine prevents every infection, it markedly lowers the risk of becoming seriously unwell and needing hospital care, particularly in older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
Boosters and timing
Because immunity gradually fades and the virus evolves, seasonal boosters help keep your defences up. The right timing depends on your age, health and any previous doses, and we can advise on what makes sense for you.
Book or ask in pharmacy
If you would like a COVID-19 vaccination or simply want advice on whether you are due a booster, contact Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road, on 01270 215837 or visit us during pharmacy opening hours.
How it spreads
Spread mainly through respiratory droplets and aerosols when an infected person breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks.
Who should be vaccinated
Adults wanting to top up their protection, travellers, and anyone in a higher-risk group or whose work or household makes infection more likely.
Vaccination schedule
A primary course followed by seasonal booster doses, with timing guided by national recommendations and your individual risk.
Boosters
Seasonal boosters are offered, often in autumn, to maintain protection in those most at risk.
Possible side effects
Tender arm, tiredness, headache and mild fever for a day or two.
COVID-19 — frequently asked questions
Who should consider a private COVID-19 vaccination in Crewe?
A private COVID-19 vaccination suits adults who want to top up their protection outside the routine NHS programme, travellers, and anyone in a higher-risk group or whose work or household makes infection more likely. If you are unsure whether you would benefit, our pharmacist can talk through your age, health and circumstances and advise whether a dose makes sense for you right now.
How many COVID-19 doses do I need and what is the schedule?
COVID-19 vaccination follows a primary course and then seasonal booster doses rather than a single lifelong jab. The exact number and timing depend on national recommendations, your age and health, and any doses you have already had. Because everyone's history differs, the simplest approach is a short chat with our pharmacist, who can work out exactly what you are due.
How long does protection from a COVID-19 vaccine last?
Protection from a COVID-19 vaccine builds within a couple of weeks but gradually fades over the following months, which is why boosters are offered rather than a one-off dose. The virus also continues to change over time. Keeping your vaccination updated, particularly ahead of winter, helps maintain your defences against severe illness when circulation tends to rise.
How soon before travel should I have a COVID-19 vaccine?
Aim to have your COVID-19 vaccine at least a couple of weeks before you travel, as it takes around that long for your protection to build fully. Having it in good time also lets any short-lived side effects settle before your journey. If you have a trip coming up and want to check you are up to date, contact us on 01270 215837 or visit the pharmacy.
What are the side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine?
Most COVID-19 vaccine side effects are mild and last only a day or two. The commonest are a tender arm where the injection was given, tiredness, headache and a mild fever. These are signs your immune system is responding and usually settle quickly with rest and fluids. Serious reactions are rare, and our pharmacist will check your health before vaccinating.
Is the COVID-19 vaccine free on the NHS or private at Crewe Pharmacy?
At Crewe Pharmacy, COVID-19 vaccination is offered as a private service for those who fall outside the routine NHS programme or who would prefer not to wait. This lets you arrange a dose at a time that suits you. Eligibility for free NHS COVID-19 vaccination changes between seasons, so contact us and we can explain your options. Call 01270 215837.
How much does a private COVID-19 vaccine cost in Crewe?
The price of a private COVID-19 vaccine is available on enquiry at Crewe Pharmacy, as costs can vary with the vaccine used and current arrangements. We are always happy to confirm the up-to-date price before you commit to anything. To get a quote and check whether you are due a dose, call 01270 215837 or call into the pharmacy on Nantwich Road.
Should I get a COVID-19 booster before travelling abroad?
A COVID-19 booster before travel can be sensible, as the virus circulates worldwide and being unwell away from home is best avoided. Some destinations or activities may also make infection more likely. Whether a booster is right depends on your age, health and when you were last vaccinated. Ask our pharmacist for tailored advice on 01270 215837 or visit us in pharmacy.