Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccination
What Is Tetanus?
Unlike most other infections, tetanus enters the body through breaks in the skin. This is most often cuts or wounds made by contaminated objects.
Symptoms can be severe and include: jaw cramping, muscle spasms and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Infection can lead to serious complications such as broken bones, blood clots or respiratory failure.
Vaccination has played a key role in reducing annual cases to less than 50 in the United States.
What Is Diphtheria?
Around 100 years ago, diphtheria killed over 15,000 children each year. This bacteria disease spreads from person-to-person through droplets from coughing or sneezing. These droplets can stay on surfaces, like tables or toys, for long periods of times.
Diphtheria produces a toxin that can cause weakness, sore throat, fever and swollen neck glands. If the toxin enters the blood stream, there can be serious complications. About 10 percent of patients die, with treatment. Nearly 50 percent will die without.
What Is Pertussis?
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious bacterial infection. The bacteria enters the body through the respiratory system and releases toxins. These damage the airway and cause swelling.
Infection is usually person-to-person from those in close contact. Babies will often catch the disease from parents, siblings or caregivers.
Symptoms begin anywhere from five days to three weeks after exposure. Early symptoms are most dangerous for babies under one year and include: runny nose, fever, cough and pauses in breathing.
After a few weeks the disease can progress to later stages. These feature fits of rapid coughing, vomiting and heavy fatigue. Pertussis can lead to pneumonia, brain disease and even rib fractures. Make sure you and your children are protected.
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What Type of Tetanus, Diphtheria or Pertussis Vaccinations are Available?
The best protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis is through vaccination. There are a few variations available depending on age and need:
- DTaP – Protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, designed for children.
- Tdap – A booster immunization designed for preteens, teens and adults.
- Td – Protects against only tetanus and diphtheria. It is a popular booster for those needing protection against just one type of infection.
All these vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective by the CDC, WHO and other health organizations.
Types of Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis Vaccination |
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| Protection Against | Protection For | |||||
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| Tetanus | Diphtheria | Pertusis | Children | Mixed | Adults | |
| DTaP |  |
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| Tdap | |
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| Td | |
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Who Should Receive a Tetanus, Diphtheria or Pertussis Vaccination?
The CDC and other health organizations recommend everyone be vaccinated and up-to-date on all tetanus, diphteria and pertussis vaccinations and boosters. These are serious infections that can harm children, seniors and everyone in between.
Doses for children are recommended at the following ages:
- 2 Months
- 4 Months
- 6 Months
- 15 to 18 Months
- 4 to 6 Years
Teens and preteens should receive a booster dose. Adults should get a booster Td vaccination every 10 years.
Where Do These Infections Occur?
Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis are common in many parts of the world. Outbreaks can occur in developed countries like the United States in Canada.
If you are a traveling to a region with any of these active infections, make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
Where Can I Get a Tetanus, Diphtheria or Pertussis Vaccination?
Passport Health locations across the United States carry these vaccines in-stock for your team. Call 1-888-986-8868 or fill out our contact form to learn more.
Have Questions? Contact Us!
On This Page:
What Is Tetanus?
What Is Diphtheria?
What Is Pertussis?
What Type of Tetanus, Diphtheria or Pertussis Vaccinations are Available?
Who Should Receive a Tetanus, Diphtheria or Pertussis Vaccination?
Where Do These Infections Occur?
Where Can I Get a Tetanus, Diphtheria or Pertussis Vaccination?
