Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, a bacterium that produces a toxin affecting the respiratory system. It primarily spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person or contact with items contaminated by these droplets. Diphtheria can lead to serious complications and is potentially life-threatening. 

Tetanus, sometimes referred to as “lockjaw”, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. The bacterium produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms. Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in soil, dust, and manure, and the infection typically enters the body through wounds or breaks in the skin.

Polio, or poliomyelitis, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the poliovirus. The virus primarily affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis, especially in the muscles required for breathing and mobility. Polio is spread through person-to-person contact, typically through the fecal-oral route or respiratory droplets. 

Smarta Healthcare offers combined Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio vaccinations for patients in and around Bedford, Milton Keynes, Luton, Letchworth, Biggleswade, St Neots, Cambridge, Sandy, Hitchin and Huntingdon, or further afield. 

Book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation today. 

The combined Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio vaccination costs £45 per dose and 1 dose is required. Family, group and student discounts are available. 

If you have any questions about required or recommended travel vaccinations, book an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation at least 4 weeks before your departure date to make sure you’re ready for your trip. 

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio are all serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Combining the vaccines into a single shot ensures that individuals receive protection against multiple diseases with one administration.  

The Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio combination vaccines are commonly used in routine immunisation schedules worldwide, providing a convenient and effective means of protecting individuals against these serious infectious diseases. 

Throughout childhood, a total of 5 doses of tetanus, diphtheria, and polio vaccines are required. These vaccinations contribute to the development and preservation of the body’s natural immunity, protecting individuals from these infections and diseases. 

For individuals traveling to areas where there is a risk of Diphtheria, Tetanus or Polio, booster doses may be recommended based on the destination and individual risk factors. We recommend booking your AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation at least 4 weeks before your departure date, to make sure you are up to date with any vaccinations and boosters before travel. 

Many people will have been immunised during routine childhood vaccination programs, however booster shots may be required depending on your circumstances. Booking an AskMyPharmacist travel health consultation 4 weeks before your departure will allow us to review your current vaccinations and advise if a booster vaccine is required.