Protecting yourself against diphtheria
Updated 10 November 2023
Applies to England
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/diphtheria-vaccination-resources/protecting-yourself-against-diphtheria
Who is being offered this extra protection?
Everyone arriving to claim asylum in the UK is currently being offered a dose of a diphtheria containing vaccine to reduce the risk of diphtheria and some other infections. This is after a number of cases have been detected in centres for asylum seekers in both Kent and in other parts of the UK.
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a serious disease that usually begins with a sore throat and can quickly cause breathing problems. It can damage the heart and nervous system and, in severe cases, it can kill. The same bacteria can also cause nasty ulcers on the skin, particularly the legs.
How it is spread
Diphtheria bacteria can live in the mouth, nose, throat or skin of people with the infection. It is spread through close contact.
How it is prevented
Diphtheria vaccination is given as part of the routine childhood immunisation programme worldwide. The vaccine is very effective and so the disease is now rare in the UK. In countries where immunisation services have been disrupted, however, the infection is more common.
Why this is being offered
An increase in diphtheria cases has been detected across Europe, mainly in those who have travelled to claim asylum. It seems likely that most infections were acquired in the country of origin, or during travel to the UK, often in crowded and difficult circumstances.
To stop the infection spreading further and to protect those who may have been exposed on or during their journey we are offering a dose of vaccine to all arrivals.
If you do develop symptoms of diphtheria, you may need a course of antibiotics and need to go to hospital. So if you experience a fever, sore throat, breathing problems or have an infected skin lesion please ask to see a doctor.
Will this stop you developing diphtheria?
For some people this vaccine may make up for missing a dose earlier in life. This dose will help to kick start your protection, but you will still need to complete the course once you are settled. Further information is available in various languages.
For other people this vaccine may be an extra dose. This extra dose should help to boost your protection and is very safe. The vaccine you are being given also provides important protection against polio and tetanus.
Side effects from the vaccine
You may have some redness, swelling or tenderness in the arm where you have the injection, or you may have a temperature and a headache. These symptoms will usually disappear in a few days.
Reporting side effects
Please report any suspected side effects:
- online at Yellow Card Scheme
- by downloading and using the Yellow Card app:
- by calling the Yellow Card scheme on 0800 731 6789 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm)
Further information
Online sources of information that you may find helpful:
Order or download print copies
A PDF version of this guide is available to download.