Pre-school booster vaccine

The 4-in-1 pre-school booster is a crucial step in safeguarding your child against serious illnesses like polio and tetanus. This vaccine is typically given when your child is 3 years and 4 months old, just before starting school. 

Purpose of the 4-in-1 Pre-school Booster

This booster vaccine offers protection against four major illnesses: 

• Diphtheria 
• Polio 
• Tetanus 
• Whooping cough 

It reinforces the protection that the earlier 6-in-1 vaccine provides. 

Who Needs the 4-in-1 Pre-school Booster?

The booster is recommended for children aged 3 years and 4 months. Administered as a single dose, it is part of the NHS vaccination schedule. If your child misses this booster, contact your GP surgery.  

Who Should Avoid the 4-in-1 Pre-school Booster?

Most children can safely receive this booster. However, it should not be given if: 

• Your child has had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a vaccine protecting against diphtheria, polio, tetanus, or whooping cough (like the 6-in-1 vaccine). 
• Your child has had a severe allergic reaction to any components of the vaccine (such as neomycin, polymyxin, or formaldehyde). 
• Your child has a high temperature due to being unwell. If they have a high temperature, wait until they are feeling better and seek medical attention if you’re concerned. 

How to Get the 4-in-1 Pre-school Booster

Your GP surgery will usually reach out to schedule your child’s 4-in-1 pre-school booster appointment via letter, text, phone call, or email.  

Talk to your local GP surgery if: 

• You haven’t been contacted about your child’s 4-in-1 pre-school booster. 
• Your child has missed or you need to change their 4-in-1 pre-school booster appointment. 
• Your child is unwell and is scheduled to get the 4-in-1 pre-school booster—they might need to wait until they’re feeling better. 

Side Effects of the 4-in-1 Pre-school Booster

Most side effects from the 4-in-1 pre-school booster are mild and go away on their own within a few days. These can include: 

• Swelling or pain at the injection site 
• Feeling tired or irritable 
• A high temperature 
• A headache 

Sometimes, a hard lump may develop where the vaccine was administered, but this usually disappears after a few weeks. 

Serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), are very rare. The healthcare professional who vaccinates your child is trained to manage and treat allergic reactions immediately. If you’re concerned, contact 111. 

You can find more information and advice about the 4-in-1 pre-school booster on the NHS website.