Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio (DTP) – What You Need to Know

The DTP vaccine protects against three serious infectious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and polio. These diseases can have severe and potentially life-threatening complications, making vaccination essential for both travel and routine protection.

In the Uk, we are routinely vaccinated for DTP as children. However, if you have not received a routine booster within the last 10 years and you are travelling to at-risk areas it is recommended to have a booster at least two weeks prior to travel.

Standard dose: Booster every 10 years if travelling to at-risk areas

Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It spreads through respiratory droplets, such as coughing or sneezing, and can also be contracted through contaminated objects or skin contact with an infected person.

Diphtheria primarily affects the throat and airways, leading to:

• A thick grey or white coating on the throat and tonsils.
• Severe sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
• Swollen glands in the neck.
• Fever and chills.
• In severe cases, it can block airways, cause heart complications, and lead to nerve damage.

If left untreated, diphtheria can release toxins into the body, leading to serious complications, including heart and nerve damage. Even with treatment, diphtheria can be fatal in up to 10% of cases, making vaccination crucial.

Tetanus

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria. Unlike diphtheria, it is not spread from person to person. Instead, the bacteria enter the body through cuts, wounds, or burns—particularly those contaminated with soil, dust, or manure.

Tetanus affects the nervous system, causing painful muscle contractions and stiffness. Symptoms include:

• Lockjaw (difficulty opening the mouth).
• Severe muscle spasms and stiffness, particularly in the neck and jaw.
• Painful body rigidity, making movement difficult.
• Fever, sweating, and rapid heart rate.
• In severe cases, breathing difficulties, which can be fatal.

Tetanus can cause life-threatening breathing problems and muscle seizures, leading to permanent disability or death if untreated. There is no cure for tetanus, only supportive treatment, making prevention through vaccination essential.

Polio

Polio is a highly infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. It spreads through contaminated food and water or direct contact with an infected person.

Most polio infections cause mild or no symptoms, but in some cases, the virus can attack the nervous system, leading to permanent paralysis. 

• Flu-like illness (fever, sore throat, headache, nausea).
• Stiffness in the neck and back.
• Muscle weakness or pain.
• Paralysis (in severe cases), which can be permanent.

There is no cure for polio, and it can lead to lifelong paralysis or death. Although polio has been largely eradicated in many countries, outbreaks still occur in certain regions, making vaccination essential for travellers.

Why the DTP Vaccine is Important

The DTP vaccine provides long-term immunity against these three life-threatening diseases. It is particularly recommended for travelers visiting high-risk areas, including:

• Parts of Africa
• South Asia
• Middle East
• Countries with poor sanitation or low vaccination rates, increasing the risk of diphtheria outbreaks.
• Rural or remote areas where medical care for tetanus injuries may be limited.