Diphtheria (DTaP, Tdap, Td)

Diphtheria (DTaP, Tdap, Td)

• Diphtheria is a serious disease caused by bacteria. The actual disease is caused when the bacteria release a toxin, or poison, into a person’s body.
• Diphtheria bacteria live in the mouth, throat, and nose of an infected person and can be passed to others by coughing or sneezing. Occasionally, transmission occurs from skin sores or through articles soiled with oozing from sores of infected people.
• Diphtheria can lead to severe breathing problems, heart problems, and paralysis. Death occurs in 5%–10% of people infected with diphtheria.
• Diphtheria was once a greatly feared illness. Because of widespread immunization and better living conditions, diphtheria is now rare.
• Vaccination is the most effective step you can take to be protected from this serious disease.

All children should get 5 doses of DTaP (diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis) vaccine, beginning at 2 months of age. If your child misses a dose or gets behind schedule, make sure they get the next dose as soon as possible. Older children, teens, and adults should receive one dose of Tdap vaccine and after that, a Td booster dose every 10 years.