Tdap vaccine or the tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis vaccine helps prevent serious bacterial infections. According to Drugs.com, an online drug resource, this immunization exposes the recipient to a small amount of the bacteria causing the body to form antibodies or immunity against it. Diphtheria and pertussis spread by person-to-person contact while tetanus is contracted by an open wound or cut in the skin.
Components
The Tdap vaccine protects against three different illnesses. Drugs.com states tetanus also known as lockjaw creates an intense contraction of the body's muscles resulting in an inability to open the mouth or swallow. One in 10 people that contract tetanus die. Diphtheria disrupts the airways causing breathing difficulties, paralysis, heart failure and death. Pertussis or whooping cough causes coughing episodes that can last for weeks interrupting eating, drinking and breathing. This infection may lead to pneumonia, seizures, brain damage and death.
Prior to taking the vaccine
Medline Plus, a website hosted by the National Institutes of Health, encourages patients to notify a health care provider prior to taking the Tdap vaccine if any of the following conditions apply, epilepsy or other nervous system disorders, Guillain Barre syndrome, latex allergy or any reaction such as swelling or pain after receiving tetanus, diphtheria or pertussis vaccines. This immunization should not be administered if a history of serious allergic reaction to any of the ingredients contained in Tdap exists. Notify a health care provider of a weak immune system caused by bone marrow transplant or cancer treatments.
Side Effects
Medline Plus states side effects of the Tdap vaccine typically only last a few days. Mild side effects include body aches, chills, slightly elevated temperature, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash and irritation at the injection site. Drugs.com instructs patients to call a health care provider if any of the following serious side effects occur: extreme drowsiness, fainting, convulsions or high temperature.
Important Facts
According to Drugs.com, it remains unknown if the Tdap vaccine will harm unborn or breast-feeding babies. If an illness characterized by a high fever is present, avoid taking this vaccine. Tdap vaccine does not treat active infections and may not protect every patient from getting tetanus, diphtheria or pertussis. A health care provider may suggest taking a pain and fever reducing medication such as Tylenol or ibuprofen for 24 hours after the injection.
Dosing
Drugs.com states this vaccine consists of a series of injections with the first shot given after the age of seven. The recommended booster shot should be administered four to eight weeks after the initial injection and then again in six to 12 months. After the completed series, patients need to receive booster injections every 10 years.
