Get your Diphtheria Vaccine for Travel at Worcester Travel Clinic

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Diphtheria Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract and, in some cases, the skin. It has an acute onset and is typically transmitted through close contact with infected individuals, usually via respiratory droplets. The incubation period ranges from 2 to 5 days. If left untreated, infected individuals can remain contagious for up to four weeks. In milder cases, individuals may carry the bacteria without displaying any symptoms, making asymptomatic carriage a potential risk for further transmission.

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Vaccination Pricing

£39 Per dose

Signs & Symptoms

Diphtheria can cause nose and throat infections: a tough ‘leathery’ grey/yellow membrane develops, that affects the soft palate, tonsils and throat. Lymph glands become swollen, prominent and tender, producing a ‘bull neck’.

Symptoms include:

Pharyngitis with fever
Swollen lymph glands in the neck which protrude
Headache
Difficulty breathing
Severe infection results in paralysis and cardiac failure

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Claines Pharmacy 153 Ombersley Rd, Worcester, WR3 7BX

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Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Evans Pharmacy 231 Worcester Rd, Malvern, WR14 1SU

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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.

What is Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a serious and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the nose and throat but can also infect the skin. The disease is particularly dangerous because the bacteria produce a toxin that can cause severe inflammation and damage to the heart, nervous system, and kidneys. Diphtheria is now rare in the UK due to widespread vaccination, but it still poses a risk in countries with lower immunisation rates. If not treated promptly, diphtheria can cause complications such as breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis, or even death.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

Diphtheria spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. It can also be transmitted by direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, or through skin lesions in cases of cutaneous diphtheria. The best prevention is routine immunisation with the diphtheria vaccine, which is part of the UK’s childhood vaccination programme. Travellers to countries where diphtheria is more common should ensure their vaccinations are up to date. Good hygiene practices, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and keeping wounds clean can also help prevent transmission.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of diphtheria usually appear two to five days after infection. In respiratory diphtheria, initial signs include a sore throat, fever, swollen glands in the neck (a characteristic “bull neck” appearance), difficulty swallowing, and a thick grey or white coating in the throat or nose. This coating can obstruct the airway, making breathing difficult. In more severe cases, the bacterial toxin can spread through the bloodstream and cause damage to organs such as the heart and nerves. Cutaneous diphtheria, which affects the skin, presents as painful, non-healing sores or ulcers. Immediate medical treatment is crucial to prevent serious complications.

How long does the vaccine last?

The diphtheria vaccine is highly effective and forms part of the routine combined immunisations given during childhood in the UK—often as part of the 6-in-1 or the Td/IPV booster (tetanus, diphtheria and polio). After the primary course and booster doses in childhood, protection usually lasts for at least 10 years. Adults who are travelling to high-risk areas and haven’t had a booster within the last 10 years are advised to get a single booster dose to maintain immunity. In some cases, especially in older adults or those with uncertain vaccination history, additional boosters may be recommended.

Countries I need the vaccine for

Diphtheria vaccination is strongly advised for travellers visiting countries where diphtheria is still prevalent or where outbreaks occur. These include regions in Africa, South Asia (particularly India, Nepal, and Pakistan), Southeast Asia, parts of Eastern Europe, and South America. The vaccine is especially recommended for those working in healthcare, aid workers, or individuals planning to stay for extended periods in areas with limited access to medical care or poor sanitation. Public Health England recommends checking vaccination records and updating boosters before travelling to these destinations.

Vaccine side effects

The diphtheria vaccine is generally very safe, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Common side effects include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, tiredness, or irritability. These reactions usually resolve within a day or two. Less commonly, some individuals may experience headaches, muscle aches, or a general feeling of being unwell. Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are extremely rare. As with all vaccines, anyone with a history of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or its components should consult a healthcare professional before receiving the vaccine.