Diphtheria Travel Vaccine

Diphtheria is an infection of the upper repertory system and is highly contagious. It is caused by bacteria, which results in high temperatures and soreness of the nose and throat areas. Unvaccinated children are susceptible to catching the disease and in severe cases diphtheria can be fatal. Diphtheria is part of the UK national vaccination schedule, and therefore it is a rare disease in the UK as well as other developed countries – although outbreaks do occur from time to time. It is recommended that travellers ensure that they are up-to-date with their immunisation schedule prior to travel, especially to countries with higher incidences of diphtheria including; India, Thailand, Vietnam, Nigeria, Brazil and Russia.

Diphtheria it is an air borne disease; should an infected person sneeze or cough in a crowd, the people in the immediate vicinity are at high risk of being infected. Infection occurs when people inhale a mist of contaminated droplets. People can also become infected with diphtheria if they are in contact with any other items an infected person may have been in contact with such as drink glasses and tissues.

The diphtheria vaccination is a course of five injections, which are given to children as part of the UK national vaccination program. Adults and teenagers can be vaccinated via a course of one injection of the combined diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccine.

The vaccine is suitable for everyone. It is also recommended for pregnant women, regardless of previous vaccination status.

Tetanus Diphtheria Polio Vaccination Facts and Figures

• Vaccine name – Revaxis Disease: Tetanus, Diptheria and Polio (not available in individual doses)
• Property – Combined inactivated vaccine
• Administration – By injection, intra muscular (deltoid)
• Dose – 0.5ml pre-filled syringe
• Course – One injection
• Booster – 10 years
• Side effects: local reaction, pain, redness, inflammation, flu like symptoms, GI disturbances.