If you are travelling soon and suddenly realise you may need vaccines, you are not alone. Many people only think about travel health once flights are booked and departure day feels close. Whether you are going on holiday, visiting family abroad, or heading on a last-minute work trip, making sure your vaccinations are up to date is one of the simplest ways to travel with confidence.
At Eltham Pharmacy Travel Clinic, we support travellers every week with fast, clear, and professional advice. If you need a diphtheria vaccine urgently, our travel clinic appointments in London are designed to be convenient and straightforward, even when you are short on time.
If you are travelling soon and want to check what you need, reach out to us today or book an appointment. You can also book your travel vaccines in Eltham through our team.
What Is The Diphtheria Vaccine?
The diphtheria vaccine helps protect against diphtheria, a serious bacterial infection that can affect the throat and airways. It can cause severe illness and, in some cases, life-threatening complications. Although diphtheria is rare in the UK due to routine vaccination, it can still occur in parts of the world where vaccination rates are lower.
For travellers, the diphtheria vaccine is often recommended because exposure risk can be higher in certain destinations, particularly for longer trips, visits to rural areas, or travel involving close contact with local communities.
In the UK, the diphtheria vaccine is commonly given as part of a combined vaccination, often with tetanus and polio (for example, the Td/IPV booster). This is why many travellers book it as a travel booster rather than as a single vaccine.
If you are unsure what you have already had, contact Eltham Pharmacy, and we can help you work it out.
Do I Need A Diphtheria Vaccine Before Travel?
Many adults are protected through childhood vaccinations, but boosters may be needed depending on your travel plans and how long it has been since your last dose.
You may need a diphtheria vaccine booster if:
- –> You have not had a booster in the last 10 years
- –> You are travelling to higher-risk regions
- –> You are visiting family and staying in local communities
- –> You are backpacking or travelling long-term
- –> You are volunteering, doing aid work, or working overseas
- –> You are travelling to areas with limited access to healthcare
Even if your trip is short, it is still worth checking your vaccine status. Travel health planning is not only about tropical diseases. It is also about making sure your core protection is up to date.
To check your suitability, book an appointment with Eltham Pharmacy today.
Why It Matters For Last-Minute Travellers
Some vaccines require multiple doses or need time to build full protection, but it is still worth booking even if your trip is close. Many travellers assume it is “too late” to do anything, but that is rarely true.
With last-minute travel appointments, we can:
- –> Review your destination and activities
- –> Identify which vaccines are most important
- –> Prioritise what can still be done safely in your timeframe
- –> Provide clear advice for travel health precautions
The diphtheria vaccine is often one of the most practical last-minute vaccines to update, especially if you are due a booster.
If you are travelling soon, contact us today and book your travel vaccines in Eltham.
What To Expect At Your Appointment
We aim to make your travel clinic visit simple and supportive. During your appointment, we will:
- –> Ask about your destination, dates, and trip style
- –> Review your vaccine history if available
- –> Recommend vaccines based on travel risk
- –> Explain side effects and aftercare
- –> Confirm what you can do before you travel
We also give practical advice on managing your health abroad, including food hygiene, insect bite prevention, and what to pack in your travel health kit.
If you want last-minute support, contact Eltham Pharmacy today.
Side Effects Of The Diphtheria Vaccine
Most people tolerate the diphtheria vaccine well. Side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Common side effects include:
- –> Sore arm at the injection site
- –> Redness or mild swelling
- –> Tiredness for a day or two
- –> Mild headache
- –> Aching muscles
These symptoms usually settle quickly. We will explain what to expect and how to manage side effects, especially if you are travelling shortly after your appointment.
If you have concerns about side effects, book an appointment and speak to our team.
Why Combine The Diphtheria Vaccine With Other Travel Vaccines?
Many travellers do not just need one vaccine. Depending on where you are travelling, you may also be advised to consider:
- –> Hepatitis A
- –> Typhoid
- –> Tetanus booster
- –> Meningitis ACWY (especially for certain travel requirements)
- –> Rabies (for higher-risk travel or remote trips)
We will help you prioritise what matters most for your trip, especially if time is short.
To get started, contact Eltham Pharmacy and book your travel vaccines in Eltham.
FAQs About Diphtheria Vaccine And Travel Vaccines
Click on the below questions to revela answers to common queries we hear from our users.
How long does the diphtheria vaccine last?
Protection is long-lasting, but boosters are often recommended for travel depending on your history. Many adults are advised to have a booster every 10 years when travelling.
Is the diphtheria vaccine the same as the tetanus vaccine?
They are different infections, but they are commonly vaccinated against together. Many travel boosters include protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and polio in one injection.
Can I get the diphtheria vaccine at short notice before I travel?
Yes, in many cases you can. Even a last-minute appointment can still improve protection and help you travel more confidently.
Can I have the diphtheria vaccine alongside other travel vaccines?
Often, yes. It depends on your individual health and which vaccines you need. We will confirm what can be given safely at your appointment.
What travel vaccines do I need for my destination?
This depends on where you are going, how long you are travelling for, and your planned activities. We will review your trip and recommend the most appropriate vaccines for your needs.
Book Your Diphtheria Vaccine In London At Eltham Pharmacy
If you have a trip coming up and want fast, professional support, Eltham Pharmacy is here to help you prepare. Last-minute travel does not need to mean last-minute stress. With a clear vaccine plan and the right advice, you can travel feeling more confident and protected.
To arrange your diphtheria vaccine, contact us today or book an appointment. You can also book your travel vaccines in Eltham with our pharmacy team.
This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
