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Alternative names Return to top
Immunization - diphtheria; Vaccine - diphtheriaDefinition Return to top
This is an immunization (vaccination) to protect against diptheria (a bacterial disease that affects the throat and can cause serious or fatal complications). See also immunizations - general overview.Information Return to top
VACCINE INFORMATION
There are three forms of diphtheria immunization described next. See also pertussis immunization (vaccine) and tetanus immunization (vaccine).
The DTaP vaccine is a "3-in-1" vaccine that protects against diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus. It can be given to children less than 7 years old. It is given by injection, usually into the arm or the thigh.
The DT vaccine is a "2-in-1" vaccine that can be given to children less than 7 years old. It protects against diphtheria and tetanus. It is given by injection, usually into the arm or thigh.
The Td vaccine is the "adult" vaccine. It is a "2-in-1" vaccine that protects against tetanus and diphtheria. It contains a slightly different dose of diphtheria vaccine than the DT vaccine. It can be given to anyone older than 7 years old. The vaccine is injected, usually into the arm.
IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE
Diphtheria vaccination is one of the recommended childhood immunizations which should begin during infancy. Diphtheria immunization is generally required before a child can start school. Five doses of vaccine are recommended during childhood.
DTaP or DT immunization is usually a series of injections given to children at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 15-18 months. A booster is given before starting school (age 4-6). DTaP is recommended unless there is a reason that the child should not receive the pertussis vaccine (such as allergic reaction), in which case the DT should be given.
After the initial series of immunizations, a booster of Td vaccine should be given at age 11-12 and every 10 years thereafter.
BENEFITS
This vaccine is highly effective at preventing diphtheria -- a serious disease. DTaP and DT vaccine can be safely given to infants.
RISKS
DTaP may cause mild side effects (slight fever, mild crankiness, tenderness of the injection site for a few days).
DTaP may rarely cause the following more serious complications:
More severe problems occur extremely rarely. These include:
Adults who receive the Td vaccine (particularly if received more often than every 10 years) may experience soreness and swelling at the injection site, lasting for 2 or 3 days.
Your health care provider may recommend measures to reduce normal postimmunization symptoms. Acetaminophen may be recommended to reduce fever and soreness.
Some providers recommend a dose be given just prior to the injection to help avert common, minor side effects. Warmth (such as a warm, damp cloth or a heating pad) may help reduce soreness. Frequently moving or using the arm or leg that has received the injection is recommended and often reduces the soreness.
CALL THE PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF:
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |