Diphtheria is an extremely contagious disease that can impact the nasal and throat areas and occasionally the skin. While it is infrequent in the United Kingdom, it’s possible to catch it in certain parts of the world.

Where is diptheria found?

Diphtheria is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Diptheria is more common in developing countries where vaccination rates are low. C. diphtheriae spreads through contact with an infected person, including items the infected person has touched (cutlery, clothing or bedding).

Prevention

Vaccination will protect against diphtheria.

The vaccine which helps to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and polio and has been available since 1941. It is advised for people travelling to high risk places where polio may occur. At JA Medical, our doctor or nurse will advise if you should consider having this vaccine. Women who are either pregnant or breastfeeding should discuss their itinerary and risk profile with our travel nurse.

Treatment

Urgent medical attention is required if a person has contracted diptheria. Diptheria is curable if treated immediately.

People with diptheria are treated with antibiotics and antitoxins. If diptheria affects the skin (cutaneous), wounds or ulcers will be thoroughly cleaned to prevent or remove infection. These ulcers will usually heal within 2 – 3 months but may leave a scar.

Dosage schedule

Children usually receive this vaccine as part of the national schedule which is a course of 5 doses. Adults and teenagers can be vaccinated via a course of one injection of the combined diphtheria, tetanus and polio vaccine.

Travellers should ensure that they have had a primary vaccination course and receive a booster every 10 years if they are travelling to an area where diphtheria, tetanus or polio are considered high risk.

Price

Each dose costs £40