Diphtheria vaccination

Diphtheria vaccination helps protect against serious illness and complications caused by diphtheria toxin. At Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk, we can review your vaccination history and provide vaccination following a suitability assessment.

What is diphtheria?

Diphtheria is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that produce diphtheria toxin. It can affect the throat, cause swelling in the neck and make breathing difficult. The toxin can also damage the heart and nervous system. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise the toxin and limit its harmful effects.

How often do adults need a diphtheria booster?

Protection from childhood vaccination decreases over time. In Poland, adults who have completed their primary course are advised to have a booster every 10 years. It is useful to check when you last had a dose, particularly before travelling to an area where diphtheria occurs.

If your vaccination record is missing or your primary course was incomplete, the doctor will arrange a catch-up schedule. A single booster may not provide adequate protection in these circumstances.

Combined diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough vaccines

Adults can receive combined vaccines against diphtheria and tetanus, or against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough. The choice depends on your age, previous vaccinations and medical circumstances.

People who will be in close contact with a young baby, and women who are pregnant, should also discuss protection against whooping cough. Vaccination during pregnancy follows its own schedule, which the clinician will explain.

How to prepare for vaccination

• Bring your vaccination record if you have one.
• Tell the clinician about long-term conditions, medicines, pregnancy and reactions to previous vaccinations.
• Let the centre know if you have a fever or an acute illness before attending.
• You do not need to fast for vaccination alone.

The assessment checks whether the chosen vaccine is suitable for you. A previous severe allergic reaction to a dose or a vaccine ingredient requires particular attention. A mild cold without significant illness does not always mean vaccination needs to be postponed.

Possible side effects

You may experience pain, redness or swelling in the arm, temporary tiredness or a raised temperature. Severe allergic reactions are rare. Stay at the centre for the observation period recommended by staff and report any symptoms that concern you.

Diphtheria vaccination in Gdansk – appointments

To arrange vaccination at Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre, contact our reception team on +48 58 719 10 25 or email kontakt@tartaczna2.pl. Please confirm vaccine availability and the cost before your appointment.