dTaP/IPV (4 in 1) vaccine - Eligibility and appointments
When is the 4-in-1 vaccine offered?
The 4-in-1 is given to children when they are 3 years and 4 months old. This vaccine boosts the protection from the 6-in-1 vaccines they had as babies (which included protection against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and hepatitis B)
The ‘4-in-1’ vaccine is also offered in some occupational health circumstances.
How will I know when my child’s vaccinations are due?
Children are sent an appointment for their routine 4-in-1 vaccination at 3 years and 4 months old. Most GP surgeries and health centres run special vaccination clinics for children. If you change your address, please let your GP surgery know.
What if I miss the appointment?
You should cancel an appointment if you can’t make it. If you do miss the appointment or have to delay the vaccination, make a new appointment as soon as possible. The vaccination can still be given, but your child will be without protection for longer.
Remember, it’s important to catch up on missed vaccinations. If your child has missed a vaccination and is older than the recommended age for it, talk to your GP, practice nurse or health visitor.
Does my child need a tetanus vaccination if they have a wound from a cut, bite, or similar injury?
Contact a GP or visit the nearest minor injury or emergency department if you’re concerned about a wound, particularly if:
- it’s a deep wound
- there’s dirt or something inside the wound, or
- your child is not fully vaccinated for tetanus, or you’re not sure.
‘Wound’ includes burns to the skin and tissue beneath.
A doctor or nurse will assess the wound and decide if your child needs a tetanus vaccine.
If you have any questions about the 4-in-1 vaccine, or you are not sure about when it should be given, contact your GP surgery for advice.
Page last reviewed: 17th October 2025