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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Tetanus, diphtheria and polio vaccine

The combined Td/IPV vaccine boosts protection against tetanus, diphtheria and polio.

What is it?

Tetanus enters through wounds, diphtheria spreads mainly through respiratory contact, and polio can cause irreversible paralysis.

Where it may be relevant

  • Travellers needing a tetanus, diphtheria or polio booster
  • People with incomplete or uncertain routine immunisation
  • Travellers to areas with current diphtheria or poliovirus risk

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Travel booster

Previously fully immunised when indicated

Dose 1Day 0

Catch-up

Incomplete history

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2At least 4 weeks
Dose 3At least 4 weeks

Later boosters may be required to complete five lifetime tetanus-containing doses.

Who may be eligible

  • Adults and older children needing an age-appropriate combined booster or catch-up dose
  • People whose documented history shows a remaining dose is required

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the Td/IPV vaccine protect against?

It protects against tetanus, diphtheria and polio in one injection.

Who should consider the Td/IPV vaccine?

It is commonly used when travel guidance identifies a booster need or routine records are incomplete.

How many doses of the Td/IPV vaccine are needed?

It may be a single booster or part of a catch-up course depending on previous doses.

Can I have the Td/IPV vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the Td/IPV vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.