Diphtheria vaccine information

What is diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a serious infection of the nose and throat. About 1 in 7 people who get diphtheria will die. The bacteria are spread through the air by persons sneezing or coughing and by direct skin-to-skin contact. The disease can result in very severe breathing problems. It can also cause heart failure and paralysis.

The ADT booster vaccine protects against diphtheria, and tetanus.

The dTpa booster vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough (pertussis).

Boosters are generally recommended every 10 years – however individuals travelling to areas where diphtheria outbreaks are occurring should receive a booster after 5 years.