Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio Vaccine

The DTP booster is a single injection that provides protection against three diseases: diphtheria, tetanus and polio. We administer Revaxis, the combined adult booster formulation. A single dose tops up protection in adults who have already completed the full childhood course.

It depends on your destination and how long ago your last booster was. For travel to Pakistan and Afghanistan, where polio remains endemic, a polio booster is recommended if you have not had one in the last ten years. For travel to parts of Asia, Eastern Europe or sub-Saharan Africa where diphtheria circulates, a diphtheria booster is recommended on the same basis. Your clinician will confirm what is needed for your specific itinerary.

In limited circumstances. The NHS provides tetanus boosters following wounds or injuries where the risk is considered significant, and provides the full primary course for children. For routine adult boosters before travel, NHS access is not guaranteed, and many GP practices do not offer this as a standard appointment. Private vaccination is the most direct route for adults who want to check and update their DTP status.

This is common, and your clinician will assess your situation at your pre-vaccination consultation. In the absence of a clear vaccination record, a full primary course of three doses is typically recommended rather than assuming a previous course was completed. Your GP record may hold historical vaccination data, and it is worth checking before your appointment if possible.

Yes. Revaxis is licensed for children aged six and over. Let us know when booking if you are bringing a child so we can allow appropriate time.

Yes. A vaccination record confirming the vaccine administered, date and batch number is issued at your appointment and emailed to you. These are accepted by employers, occupational health services, travel authorities and embassies.

For most adults, a tetanus booster is recommended every ten years if there is ongoing risk of exposure, for example through occupational work outdoors, with animals, or before travel to regions without reliable access to tetanus treatment. Some adults do not need repeat boosters indefinitely; your clinician will advise based on your vaccination history.

Polio remains endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Wild poliovirus has also been detected in wastewater sampling in several countries, including the UK, Israel and parts of Africa, in recent years. Travellers to Pakistan and Afghanistan should confirm their polio vaccination is up to date before departure.

Revaxis is a combined vaccine covering all three diseases in a single injection. It is not possible to receive diphtheria, tetanus or polio as entirely separate adult booster doses through this vaccine. If you are certain that only one component needs updating, your clinician will review your full vaccination history and advise on the most appropriate course of action.

Side effects are usually mild and short-lived: soreness, redness or mild swelling at the injection site, and occasionally a low-grade fever or fatigue for one to two days. More significant reactions are rare. Your clinician will discuss what to expect before administering the vaccine.

Protection from a single booster dose is long-lasting for diphtheria and tetanus. Current guidance does not recommend routine repeat boosters for healthy adults who have completed the full course and received a booster. For polio, a single adult booster is generally considered sufficient for most people. Your clinician will advise based on your individual history and travel plans.

Possibly, depending on the wound type and your vaccination history. Tetanus risk is higher with dirty, deep or contaminated wounds. If you have had a full primary course and a booster within the last ten years, you are generally considered protected. If you are unsure, our clinicians can assess the wound and your vaccination history and advise accordingly.