Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio (DTP)

About DTP

Diphtheria is a bacterial infection that affects the throat and nose, while tetanus is caused by bacteria entering the body through an open wound. Polio is a virus that can lead to paralysis or even death. 

Diphtheria is still a risk for unvaccinated travellers to countries with low uptake of diphtheria-containing vaccines. Generalised tetanus is responsible for most cases, associated with intense, painful contractions and spasms of skeletal muscles. Even with intensive medical support, death occurs in 10 to 20% of cases. Most individuals (about 95%) who acquire polio do not develop symptoms. 

Vaccines are available to protect against all three diseases, and it is essential to make sure that you and your family are up-to-date on vaccinations. By doing so, you can help ensure that everyone is protected from these potentially serious illnesses.

How can you get DTP?

Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection. It's spread by:

• Coughing, sneezing, or through close contact with someone infected

• Sharing items, such as cups, cutlery, clothing or bedding, with an infected person

Tetanus

Tetanus bacteria can get into your body through the following:

• Cuts and grazes

• Tears or splits in the skin

• Burns

• Animal bites

• Body piercings, tattoos and injections

• Eye injuries

• Injecting contaminated drugs

Polio

Polio is caused by a virus that spreads quickly from person to person. It usually spreads through:

• Contact with the poo of an infected person, for example, from not washing your hands properly and putting them in your mouth 

• From contaminated food or water

• Coughs or sneezes, but this is less common