Travel vaccine
Tetanus, Diphtheria & Polio
A single combined booster that tops up your protection against three serious infections in one injection.
About these three diseases
This single injection combines protection against tetanus, diphtheria and polio. Tetanus is caused by bacteria that enter the body through cuts, burns and wounds and can lead to painful muscle spasms. Diphtheria affects the throat and airways and can damage the heart and nerves. Polio can cause paralysis. All three are uncommon in the UK thanks to routine childhood vaccination, but they still circulate in some parts of the world.
The combined booster
Most people in the UK are vaccinated against these infections as children. Before travelling to certain destinations, a single combined booster is recommended if it has been more than ten years since your last dose. Having all three together in one injection is convenient and means you stay protected while you are away, particularly in regions where the diseases have not been fully eliminated.
Practical travel advice
It helps to know roughly when you last had a tetanus, diphtheria or polio vaccination, though we can advise even if you are unsure. Clean any wounds carefully while travelling and seek medical attention for deep or dirty injuries. To check whether you are due a booster for your trip, book a travel consultation at Crewe Pharmacy, 139-141 Nantwich Road. Call 01270 215837 or visit us in the pharmacy to arrange it.
How it spreads
Tetanus enters through cuts and wounds, while diphtheria and polio spread between people through coughs, sneezes and contaminated food or water.
Who should be vaccinated
Any traveller whose routine UK course is out of date, particularly those heading to areas where these diseases remain a concern.
Vaccination schedule
Single combined booster dose, usually given if your last vaccination was more than 10 years ago
Boosters
Protection is generally topped up every 10 years for travellers to higher-risk regions.
Possible side effects
A sore arm, slight swelling at the injection site, or a mild temperature for a short time.
Regions where there is a risk
Africa, Asia, Middle East, Parts of Eastern Europe.
Tetanus, Diphtheria & Polio — frequently asked questions
Who needs the tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster before travelling?
Any traveller whose routine UK course is out of date should consider this combined booster, especially those heading to areas where these diseases still circulate. Most UK adults were vaccinated as children, so a single top-up is usually all that is needed. Our team at Crewe Pharmacy can confirm whether your trip warrants one.
How many doses of the tetanus, diphtheria and polio vaccine do I need?
For most travellers a single combined booster dose covers all three infections in one injection. This is usually given if your last vaccination was more than 10 years ago. Having tetanus, diphtheria and polio together is convenient and means you stay protected throughout your trip without needing three separate appointments.
How long does the tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster last?
Protection from the combined booster is generally topped up every 10 years for travellers to higher-risk regions. After your booster you can usually consider yourself covered for around a decade. If you travel frequently to affected areas, it helps to keep a note of the date so you know when your next top-up is due.
How soon before travelling should I have the booster?
Ideally have your tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster a couple of weeks before you travel so your protection is fully topped up before departure. That said, the booster still offers benefit even if booked closer to your trip. If your departure is near, call 01270 215837 and we will do our best to fit you in.
What are the side effects of the tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster?
Side effects are usually mild and pass quickly. You may notice a sore arm, slight swelling at the injection site, or a mild temperature for a short time. These are common signs your body is responding to the vaccine and rarely cause real trouble. Serious reactions are very uncommon, but tell our team if you have concerns.
Is the tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster free on the NHS or private?
A travel booster for tetanus, diphtheria and polio is provided privately at Crewe Pharmacy. While your original childhood course was given free on the NHS, top-up doses specifically for travel are usually a private service. This lets you arrange your booster quickly to fit around your departure date rather than waiting for an appointment elsewhere.
How much does the tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster cost in Crewe?
The combined tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster costs £35 at Crewe Pharmacy. This single price covers all three infections in one convenient injection. To check whether you are due a booster for your trip and to arrange it, call 01270 215837 or visit us at 139-141 Nantwich Road during pharmacy opening hours.
Which countries need a tetanus, diphtheria and polio booster?
A booster is most often advised for travel to parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East and some areas of Eastern Europe, where these diseases have not been fully eliminated. Tetanus is a risk almost anywhere through cuts and wounds, while polio and diphtheria remain present in certain regions. Our team can advise based on your specific destination.