Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) Vaccination

The DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio) vaccine is recommended for all children, with booster doses for adults and adolescents. It’s particularly important for those in close contact with infants and in areas with pertussis outbreaks. 

The Revaxis vaccine is a combination vaccine that provides protection against three serious bacterial diseases: Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio. It is typically given as a booster dose for adults and children who need continued immunity against these diseases, especially after the initial vaccination series in childhood. 

The Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio (DTP) vaccine is highly effective, offering over 90% protection against all three diseases when the full vaccination series is completed. 

The Revaxis vaccine (which provides protection against Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio) typically provides protection for 10 years. After this period, a booster dose is recommended to maintain immunity, especially for adults and those at higher risk of exposure to these diseases. Regular boosters every 10 years ensure continued protection against these potentially serious infections. 

Getting vaccinated before travelling is a key step in safeguarding your health, the health of those around you, and the public health of the communities you visit. For Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP), it is advisable to get the vaccine at least 10 days before departure. 

A consultation with our specialist travel nurse costs £20 for the first appointment and £10 for additional people and follow ups. The consultation is required to assess your travel plans and medical history and recommend vaccinations for your individual needs. A dose of the Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) vaccine costs £44, and 1 dose is required. The vaccine offers protection for 10 years.  

Please see our full price list for details and speak to our staff in clinics about customised price plans for groups, families or when you book your full course in advance. 

Common side effects include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, and fatigue. Rare side effects can include allergic reactions and neurological problems. 

You can get the Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) vaccine in one of our flagship clinics with locations in: 

• London: Victoria, Moorgate, London Bridge 

• Hampshire: Winchester, Southampton 

• Hertfordshire: Hitchin 

• Sussex: Brighton & Hove, Worthing 

• Kent: Ashford 

You can also visit one of our local pharmacy partners by finding a clinic near you. 

Is Diphtheria the same as Whooping Cough? 

No, Diphtheria is not the same as Whooping Cough. While both are serious bacterial infections that can affect the respiratory system, they are caused by different bacteria and have distinct symptoms and treatments: 

Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae and leads to a thick coating in the throat and nose, which can make breathing and swallowing difficult. It also releases toxins that can damage the heart, kidneys, and nerves. 

Whooping Cough (Pertussis) is caused by Bordetella pertussis and is characterised by severe coughing fits followed by a “whooping” sound when inhaling. It is particularly dangerous for infants and young children due to the risk of complications like pneumonia. 

Both diseases are preventable with vaccines, often given together in combination vaccines such as DTaP or TDaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis). 

Is Tetanus the same as Rabies? 

No, Tetanus is not the same as Rabies. While both are serious infections affecting the nervous system, they are caused by different pathogens, have distinct symptoms, and are transmitted differently: 

Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, commonly found in soil, dust, and animal waste. It enters the body through wounds and causes muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw and neck. 

Rabies is caused by the rabies virus, which is typically transmitted through the bite or saliva of an infected animal. It leads to severe neurological symptoms, including agitation, fear of water, and paralysis, and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. 

Both infections are preventable with vaccines, but they require separate vaccinations due to their different causes and transmission methods. 

Is Polio the same as Meningitis? 

No, Polio and Meningitis are not the same, though both can affect the nervous system and lead to serious health complications: 

Polio is caused by the poliovirus, which spreads through contaminated food and water. It primarily targets the spinal cord and can lead to paralysis, especially in severe cases. 

Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, often caused by bacterial or viral infections (such as Neisseria meningitidis or Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria). Meningitis causes symptoms like fever, headache, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. 

While both diseases can cause neurological symptoms, they are distinct infections with different causes, treatments, and preventive vaccines. 

What are symptoms of Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio? 

Here are the symptoms associated with each of these diseases: 

• Diphtheria: Symptoms include a thick, grey coating in the throat or nose that can make breathing difficult, sore throat, fever, weakness, and swollen glands in the neck. If left untreated, diphtheria can cause complications affecting the heart, nerves, and kidneys due to the toxin it produces. 

• Tetanus: Tetanus causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms, often starting in the jaw (lockjaw), neck stiffness, difficulty swallowing, muscle rigidity, and, in severe cases, painful spasms in the body that can interfere with breathing. Tetanus is typically triggered by bacteria entering the body through wounds or cuts. 

• Polio: Polio often begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, headache, and fatigue. In more severe cases, the virus can affect the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness or paralysis, which can be permanent. Polio paralysis typically affects the legs, but in severe cases, it can impact the muscles needed for breathing. 

All three diseases can have serious or even life-threatening complications, but they are preventable with vaccination. 

What is the schedule for the Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) vaccine?

For how long after the DTP vaccine are you contagious? 

The DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio) vaccine does not make the recipient contagious. Vaccines, including DTP, are designed to stimulate the immune system to develop protection against specific diseases without causing the person to become infectious.

How often do you need a Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) booster? 

A DTP booster can be given every 10 years for adults. Pregnant women should receive a Tdap booster during each pregnancy, preferably between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation. 

Can children have the Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) vaccine? 

Who is not able to have the Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) vaccine? 

The vaccine cannot be given: 

• To children under 10 years of age. This is because protection is also required against Pertussis (Whooping Cough), which is not covered by the DTP vaccine. 

• If there is a history of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or any of its components. 

• If there is a history of severe allergic reaction to Neomycin, Streptomycin and Polymyxin B (antibiotics used in the manufacturing process). 

• If there is an acute illness associated with fever (greater than 38.5 degrees Celsius). 

• If there is an unstable neurological condition, such as uncontrolled epilepsy. 

Pregnancy 

There have been no toxic effects seen when the vaccine has been given to pregnant women. Therefore, the vaccine can be given if there is a significant risk of infection. 

Breast Feeding 

The vaccination can be given to breast feeding mothers if there is a clinical indication to do so. Inactivated vaccines have not been shown to cause serious side effects to breast fed infants. 

Is the Diphtheria Tetanus Polio (DTP) vaccine free on the NHS? 

Yes, vaccines against Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio (DTP) are offered for free on the NHS. 

What additional precautions do I need to take to avoid Diphtheria, Tetanus or Polio? 

In addition to the vaccination, here are key precautions to help prevent Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio: 

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after contact with others, to reduce the spread of Diphtheria and Polio, which can be transmitted through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces. 

• In regions where these diseases are more common, avoid close contact with people who may have respiratory infections (for Diphtheria) and be cautious with food and water safety to prevent Polio. 

• Tetanus bacteria thrive in contaminated soil and can enter the body through cuts or puncture wounds. Clean any cuts thoroughly and use a clean bandage; seek medical advice if the wound is deep, especially after contact with soil or rusted objects. 

• Diphtheria can be spread through saliva, so avoid sharing cups, utensils, or toothbrushes with others, especially in areas with known cases.