Who should have it
Travellers visiting areas where these infections are more common or where medical care may be harder to access, particularly if it’s been around ten years since your last dose. It’s worth checking your records before any trip, as a booster is often recommended to keep your protection up to date.
How many doses
For most adults a single combined booster is enough to top up protection, usually lasting around ten years. If you weren’t fully vaccinated as a child, a short course may be needed instead. Your prescriber will check your history and confirm what you need.
Possible side effects
Side effects are usually mild and may include soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site, headache, tiredness, or a mild temperature in the days after vaccination.
Additional precautions
Vaccination is the main protection, but sensible care still helps. Clean any wounds promptly and seek medical advice for deep or dirty wounds, take care with food and water hygiene where sanitation is poor, and keep a note of your vaccination dates for future trips.
About the disease
Tetanus is caused by bacteria entering the body through wounds and affects the nervous system. Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection of the throat and airways. Polio is a viral infection that can affect the nerves and cause paralysis. The combined vaccine protects against all three, which is why keeping it up to date is important.