Childhood vaccine
Diphtheria Vaccine
The diphtheria vaccine protects against a serious bacterial infection of the throat and airways. In the UK it is given within combined childhood vaccines and boosters.
What it protects against
It protects against diphtheria, a bacterial infection that can cause a thick coating in the throat, difficulty breathing, and damage to the heart and nerves from a toxin the bacteria produce.
Who it's for
All children in the UK, given within the 6-in-1, preschool and teenage booster vaccines; boosters may be advised for some travellers to higher-risk areas.
How it works
It contains an inactivated form of the diphtheria toxin (a toxoid), which prompts the immune system to make protective antibodies against the toxin.
Safety
Safety and side effects
It is very safe and given as part of combined vaccines. Side effects are those of those vaccines — mainly injection-site soreness and being briefly unsettled.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Diphtheria Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Is diphtheria still around?
It is now very rare in the UK thanks to vaccination, but it still occurs in some parts of the world and can be imported, so maintaining protection through routine vaccines remains important.
How is the diphtheria vaccine given?
It is not given on its own but combined with other vaccines — in the 6-in-1 for babies, the 4-in-1 preschool booster, and the 3-in-1 teenage booster.
Related
Other childhood vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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