All LloydsPharmacy staff who provide this service are trained to manage anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction to a vaccine. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include fainting, shortness of breath, falling blood pressure and swelling of the face and neck. Anaphylaxis is extremely rare after receiving the injection.

This vaccine consists of a single injection and stimulates the body's immune system to fight the possible infections without causing the infections themselves.

Diphtheria bacteria are spread from person to person by sneezing, coughing or being in close contact with someone who is already infected. Diphtheria causes a lung infection characterized by sore throat and fever. If left untreated, it can lead to paralysis of the lung muscles which can lead to difficulty breathing and swallowing.

Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in the soil and animal manure and enter the body through cuts or wounds. Tetanus causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to 'lockjaw' and painful spasms that makes it difficult to breath and swallow.

Polio is caused by a virus that is mainly spread by swallowing food and drink that is contaminated with the faeces of someone who already has the virus, or with the droplets launched into the air when they cough or sneeze. Once inside the body, the virus spreads to the nervous system and can cause life-long paralysis.