Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Diphtheria Vaccine

Diphtheria Vaccine 

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Diphtheria

Diphtheria is an infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract and, in some cases, the skin. It has an acute onset and is transmitted through close contact with infected individuals. The incubation period typically ranges from 2 to 5 days. Without treatment, individuals can remain infectious for up to four weeks. In milder cases, carriers may be asymptomatic.

Vaccination Pricing

£39 Per dose
£39 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

  • Fever and chills

  • Swollen lymph glands in the neck which protrude

  • Headache

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Severe infection results in paralysis and cardiac failure

  • Sore throat and difficulty swallowing

  • Hoarseness or loss of voice

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

231 Worcester Road, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

worcesterravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

153 Ombersley Road, Worcester, WR3 7BX

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
6-85 1** – Up to day before* 10 Years

*Vaccines work best if given time to become active. This vaccine can be given up to the day before travel and will provide some cover.

**Children who have have already been immunised with the NHS childhood vaccination program.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, primarily affecting the upper respiratory tract, although it can also involve the skin. The bacteria produce a potent toxin that can cause severe damage to tissues and organs, particularly the heart and nervous system. If left untreated, diphtheria can lead to serious complications, including breathing difficulties, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart), and even death. While now rare in the UK due to widespread vaccination, diphtheria remains a significant health risk in regions where immunisation rates are low or healthcare infrastructure is limited.

Diphtheria spreads through close contact with an infected person, usually via respiratory droplets when they cough or sneeze. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces or through contact with infected skin lesions. Asymptomatic carriers can also unknowingly spread the bacteria. Prevention is most effectively achieved through routine vaccination, which is part of the UK childhood immunisation schedule. Maintaining good hygiene, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and ensuring vaccinations are up to date before travelling to high-risk areas are essential preventive steps. Booster doses may be recommended for adults travelling to regions where diphtheria remains prevalent.

Symptoms of diphtheria typically begin with a sore throat and difficulty swallowing, accompanied by a low-grade fever and general fatigue. One of the hallmark signs is the development of a thick grey or white coating at the back of the throat or on the tonsils, which can obstruct breathing in severe cases. Swollen glands in the neck, often leading to a “bull neck” appearance, are also common. As the infection progresses, individuals may experience hoarseness or loss of voice, a persistent cough, and, in severe cases, breathing difficulties due to airway obstruction. In some instances, diphtheria can affect the skin, causing ulcers or lesions. Without prompt treatment, the toxin produced by the bacteria may lead to serious complications such as inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), nerve damage, and respiratory failure.

The diphtheria vaccine is usually given in combination with protection against tetanus and polio (as the DTP or Td/IPV vaccine). After the full childhood schedule, which includes multiple doses during infancy and a booster during adolescence, protection typically lasts for around 10 years. Adults may require a booster dose if it has been more than 10 years since their last vaccine, particularly if travelling to a country where diphtheria is more common. Immunity may wane over time, so booster doses help maintain adequate protection.

The diphtheria vaccine is recommended for travel to areas where the disease is still present or where outbreaks have occurred, particularly in regions of Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and parts of South America. Countries with low vaccination coverage or areas affected by conflict and displacement are at higher risk. The vaccine is especially advised for travellers working in healthcare or humanitarian aid, and for those staying in rural or remote regions. It’s best to consult a travel health professional at least 6 to 8 weeks before departure to assess whether a booster is necessary.

The diphtheria vaccine is generally considered safe, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. The most common reactions include redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site, which may last for a day or two. Some individuals may experience a low-grade fever, headache, tiredness, or general aches and pains following vaccination. In children, irritability or slight loss of appetite may also occur. Occasionally, a small, firm lump may form at the site of injection, which can persist for several weeks but usually resolves without treatment. Serious side effects are extremely rare, but as with any vaccine, there is a very small risk of an allergic reaction. Overall, the protective benefits of the vaccine far outweigh the minimal risk of adverse effects.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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The Malvern Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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Competitive Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on our vaccinations to ensure that essential healthcare is both affordable and accessible to everyone.

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