Tetanus, Diphtheria and Poliomyelitis

Click on images below for detailed Tetanus, Diphtheria and Poliomyelitis facts and prevention information.

Be prepared. Your local Travel Clinic can help you plan for a safe and healthy adventure. What Is It? Tetanus (Lockjaw) is a rare but severe disease that causes muscle contractions which can lead to breathing problems and even death Tetanus can occur if contaminated soil enters cuts or wounds, such as a burn Diphtheria is a disease of the respiratory passages, transmitted from person-to-person, which may cause severe heart disease In the developing world, diphtheria is sometimes spread via unpasteurized milk Polio is a widespread disease in the developing world outside North and South America, which may result in paralysis Polio is transmitted primarily through food or water contaminated with feces Where Is It? Prevention Tips You should have your first (primary) immunization series against tetanus, diphtheria, and polio during childhood If you're traveling with infants and children, you should discuss their immunization needs, especially if traveling for extended periods of time, which might interrupt your child's normal immunization schedule Available Immunizations A booster dose against tetanus and diphtheria is recommended every 10 years, whether traveling abroad or not If you have not received the complete primary series, consult your health care professional about completing it A booster dose against tetanus and diphtheria is recommended every 10 years, whether traveling abroad or not If you have not received the primary series, then you should receive at least two doses of polio vaccine 4 weeks apart prior to departure, if time allows Please consult your travel clinic physician to determine which vaccines are appropriate for you

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