Vaccination: diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis (DTP)

Verified 24 January 2023 - Directorate for Legal and Administrative Information (Prime Minister)

Is vaccination against diphtheria, tetanus and poliomyelitis (DTP) mandatory or recommended? It depends on the age and the situation of the person. These rules apply to all persons residing in France, regardless of their nationality. We are taking stock of the regulations.

General case

Tableau - Mandatory vaccines and boosters (mandatory or recommended) set by the vaccination schedule

Vaccine

Injection

Reminder required

Recommended Reminders

Diphtheria

  • 1re 2-month injection
  • 2e 4-month injection

At 11 months

  • At 6 years old
  • Between 11 and 13 years
  • At 25 years old
  • At age 45
  • At age 65
  • Then every 10 years

Tetanus

  • 1re 2-month injection
  • 2e 4-month injection

At 11 months

  • At 6 years old
  • Between 11 and 13 years
  • At 25 years old
  • At age 45
  • At age 65
  • Then every 10 years

Poliomyelitis

  • 1re 2-month injection
  • 2e 4-month injection

At 11 months

  • At 6 years old
  • Between 11 and 13 years
  • At 25 years old
  • At age 45
  • At age 65
  • Then every 10 years

The vaccine is bought in a pharmacy.

The purchase of diphtheria, tetanus and poliomyelitis vaccines is reimbursed on medical prescription to 65% by Social Security.

FYI  

The complementary part is usually taken over by the complementary bodies.

The vaccine injection is:

  • Paid at a doctor's office, and reimbursed to 70% by Social Security
  • Reimbursed to 60% by Social Security if performed by a nurse
  • Free at a public health facility.

Please note

Vaccine injection can be managed at 100% for people with certain long-term conditions.

The person exercising parental authority (usually the parents) must ensure that their child is up to date with the required vaccinations.

A parent who fails to comply with his or her legal obligations to such an extent as to endanger the health of his or her minor child shall be punished with two years' imprisonment and €30,000 of fine.

If you notice an adverse effect on your health, following vaccination, you can report it on the portal "Health reporting":

Health reporting

Healthcare workers

Vaccines required

Immunizations against diphtheria, tetanus, and poliomyelitis are obligatory for the following:

  • Pupils and students of an institution preparing for the practice of medical and other health professions
  • Health personnel, according to the opinion of the occupational physician.

Recommended vaccines

Booster vaccinations are also recommended:

  • At age 25,
  • At 45,
  • And 65 years (depending on the continuation of the activity).

Employers' or, for pupils and students, the establishments which have received their registration shall bear the costs incurred in connection with these vaccinations.

Working in a public or private prevention or care facility without being vaccinated can be punished with a fine of up to €1,500.

If you notice an adverse effect on your health, following vaccination, you can report it on the portal "Health reporting":

Health reporting

Who can help me?

Find who can answer your questions in your region

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