Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis and Polio vaccination (dTaP/IPV or, '4-in-1' vaccine)

Comprehensive Protection for You and Those Around You

The whooping cough (pertussis) vaccine is offered as part of a combined vaccination with Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio. This inactivated vaccine provides essential protection for pregnant women, travelers, and individuals at risk of exposure to whooping cough.

• Vaccine Brand: Boostrix-IPV or REPEVAX  
  
  

Who Can Get the Vaccine?

The vaccine is suitable for individuals over the age of 10 years and is particularly recommended for:

1. Pregnant Clients:

   • Protects newborns from whooping cough during the first months of life.

2. Individuals in Close Contact with Infected Persons:

   • For those who had contact with someone with whooping cough and received their last vaccination over 10 years ago.

3. Travelers:

   • Recommended for travelers to areas with recent outbreaks of whooping cough if their last dose was over 10 years ago.

4. Individuals Working or Living Abroad:

   • Boosting may be needed for those working or residing long-term in the USA or Australia.

5. Frequent Close Contact with Vulnerable Groups:

   • For those who had their last vaccination over 10 years ago and are regularly in close contact with young children or pregnant women.

How is the Vaccine Administered?

The vaccine is given as a single injection in the upper arm.

Common Side Effects

Very Common (1 in 10):

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site
• Joint swelling or pain
• Fever or chills
• Lack of energy
• Nausea

Common (1 in 100):

• Rash
• Muscle pain
• Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or vomiting
• Itchiness and hardness around the injection site

These side effects are generally mild and resolve quickly.

Why Vaccinate?

Whooping cough can lead to severe complications, especially in young infants. Early symptoms include:

• Excess mucus in the nose and throat.
• Red, watery eyes.
• Sore throat and a persistent cough.

In infants, the cough can develop into spasms, followed by a distinctive "whoop" sound as they gasp for air, and may cause vomiting or breathing difficulties.

Vaccination during pregnancy protects your baby from birth until they can receive their own vaccine as part of the National Immunisation Schedule.

Additional Information

• NHS Provision: The whooping cough vaccine is available for free on the NHS. Please check with your GP for eligibility.
• International Travel: If you are traveling to areas with outbreaks or need booster doses for work or residency abroad, please consult us for advice.