Tetanus, Polio & Diphtheria

The DTP vaccine protects against three serious infections:

• Diphtheria – a bacterial infection that can cause a thick coating in the throat, breathing difficulties, and heart or nerve damage.
• Tetanus – caused by bacteria entering through cuts or wounds, leading to painful muscle spasms and breathing problems.
• Polio – a viral infection that can cause permanent paralysis and, in severe cases, be life-threatening

In the UK, a full course is five doses in childhood/adolescence. Adults who completed this usually only require one booster every 10 years for travel purposes.

In most cases, a full course provides lifelong protection. However, some countries - or certain higher-risk activities (such as travel to endemic areas or sustaining a high-risk wound) - may require a booster if your last dose was more than 10 years ago.

In most cases, a full course provides lifelong protection, though some when visiting some countries, or when undertaking higher risk activities, it is recommended to have a booster if the last dose was more than 10 years ago.

• Adults and children who are not fully vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and polio
• Travellers to areas where these diseases remain a risk, if it has been more than 10 years since the last booster
• People with uncertain vaccination history, especially after injuries that may put them at risk of tetanus

Yes - in the UK, diphtheria, tetanus, and polio vaccines are part of the routine NHS childhood schedule. Adults who completed the full course in childhood are usually considered protected for life. However, the NHS may also provide boosters free of charge if you are travelling to certain at-risk countries or if you sustain a high-risk wound.

Most people tolerate the vaccine well. The most common side effects are soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or headache. These usually settle within a day or two. Serious side effects are very rare.