Diphtheria, tetanus, and polio are three distinct diseases that were once common in the UK before widespread vaccination. Today they remain a risk in parts of the world where vaccination rates are lower, and travellers who have not had a recent booster can be vulnerable.
Diphtheria is a bacterial throat infection that can block the airway and cause serious complications. Tetanus enters the body through cuts and wounds, causing severe muscle spasms. Polio is a viral infection that can cause permanent paralysis; wild poliovirus continues to circulate in a small number of countries including Pakistan and Afghanistan. A combined vaccine covering all three is given as a single injection and is both convenient and effective.
Most adults who had their childhood immunisations are well protected but may need a booster if more than 10 years have passed, particularly before visiting higher risk areas. If you are unsure whether your vaccinations are up to date, bring your Red Book or immunisation record to your appointment, or call us on 0161 437 2634 for guidance.
When you need this vaccine
- Travel to parts of South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and countries with lower vaccination coverage where polio or diphtheria may still circulate
- Anyone who has not had a booster in the last 10 years and is travelling internationally
- Travel to regions where Pakistan and Afghanistan report ongoing wild poliovirus transmission
- Healthcare workers and aid workers in lower income countries
- Adults whose routine childhood series was not completed
Schedule
- A single booster dose covers all three diseases in one injection (Revaxis or similar combined vaccine).
- Adults who have had the full childhood series should receive a booster if more than 10 years have passed since their last dose.
- For those who have never had the primary course, three doses at intervals of 1 month are required.
- Protection is considered good from around 2 weeks after the booster.