Tetanus/Polio/Diphtheria Immunisation
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Immunisation against Tetanus (lockjaw) is important.
The bacteria that causes this disease lives in the soil and dirt of our daily lives and enters the body through a wound or break in the skin, including burns and scalds. The toxin produced by the bacteria causes gradual paralysis of muscles – hence the common name lockjaw. It is a serious illness and can be fatal, but it is preventable. Research shows that 5 injections in a lifetime are usually enough, but Tetanus-prone/dirty wounds may need additional boosters or immunoglobulin.
The booster you will be given is a combined Tetanus/low dose Diphtheria/Polio Vaccine. This is recommended by the World Health Organisation.
If you have any further queries, please contact:
• Emergency Department: 01908 995 913 ext. 2409 between 9am and 10 pm
• Hospital switchboard: 01908 660033 between 10pm and 9am
• Call NHS 111
• Your GP surgery