The DPT vaccine, also known as DTaP vaccine, is a combination vaccine that protects against three infectious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).
- Diphtheria is a serious respiratory illness that can cause difficulty breathing, heart failure, paralysis, or death.
- Tetanus is a painful and potentially deadly muscle disease caused by toxins produced by bacteria that enter the body through a wound.
- Pertussis is a highly contagious respiratory illness that causes severe coughing spells.
The vaccine is given to children as a series of shots, typically at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years of age. A booster shot, called Tdap, is recommended for adolescents and adults at age 11 or 12 and then every 10 years thereafter. Pregnant women should also get a Tdap vaccine during their pregnancy.
The DPT vaccine is very safe and effective. Mild side effects can occur, such as soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, fever, fussiness, or drowsiness. More serious side effects are extremely rare.