Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio – DTwP- Vaccine

Getting ready for your next trip is a stressful thing. Staying protected against any diseases and making sure you’re lowering any chances of getting exposes is part of planning your next trip. With Midland Health, we will make sure that you will be ready to enjoy a great time.

The polio, diphtheria and tetanus vaccine (DPT vaccine) is recommended for anyone that is planning to travel to areas of the world where polio or diphtheria are prevalent. Such areas include parts of Africa, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. 

The Vaccine

The DTP vaccine is composed of active ingredients that will help your body develop immunity to all three diseases. The vaccine is administered in your upper arm and you will require one dose. The combined DTP vaccination is routinely offered on an immunisation schedule of 5 injections at ages 2, 4, 6 and 15 months, then again between 4 -6 years.

When to get the DPT vaccine?

The recommended time to get the DTP vaccine is two weeks before travelling. The vaccine can be administered to children of the age of 10 and above.  The DTwP vaccine is also recommended for women in the second half of all pregnancies to protect against whooping cough.

Do I need a Dpt Booster?

You might need a booster if the last time you had a DPT vaccine was more than 10 years ago. A booster is available for children aged 11 – 12 or for those who have not previously received treatment.
Tetanus boosters may be required after some types of injuries or if you are travelling to certain countries. Always check in with a medical expert before visiting any areas where this disease is present. 

Are there any side effects?

Although there aren’t any major side effects, some people report that the area around the jab feels sore for a short period of time. You might also experience nausea and feeling unwell along with developing a fever or light headaches. These go away very quickly.  

During your consultation at our clinic, we will be able to advise you on the best precautions to take in order to minimise your exposure to the illness.

What’s diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a contagious infection that can easily spread through contact with the saliva and mucus of the infected person. The first symptoms of someone who has been infected with it involve a sore throat and breathing problems. It can easily damage the nervous system and heart, ultimately killing the person. 

What’s Tetanus?

Tetanus is an infection caused by the clostridium tetani bacteria and it usually starts when the bacteria enter an open wound. It is usually caused by animal bites and the prospects can be aggravated if the wound has come in contact with foreign objects or it’s not treated on time. The disease affects the nervous system, provoking muscle spasms and potentially leads to death.

What’s Polio?

Polio is a viral infection that affects the nervous system, leading to permanent muscle paralysis. If it damaged the chest muscle or brain, it could kill. The way it spreads it though consuming contaminated food or water.

Book a private appointment at our private clinic in Birmingham and one of our friendly GPs will offer you all the information you need regarding the DTwP vaccine.