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DTaP immunization (vaccine)
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| DTaP immunization (vaccine) |
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Definition:
This is a vaccine designed to protect against the diseases of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. See also diphtheria immunization, tetanus immunization, and pertussis immunization. Information:
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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. DTaP is a newer version of the vaccine which is less likely to cause bad reactions than the older DTP. IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE DTaP vaccination is one of the recommended childhood immunizations. It should begin during infancy. DTaP immunization is generally required before a child can start school. The recommended series includes five immunizations. DTaP immunization is usually a series of injections given to children at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years. 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 years, and every 10 years thereafter. BENEFITS DTaP vaccine is highly effective for the prevention of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis -- all of which are serious, potentially deadly, diseases. DTaP vaccine can be safely given to infants. RISKS DTaP may cause mild side effects, such as fever, crankiness, soreness at the injection site, vomiting, and decreased appetite. They are self-limited and temporary, lasting only a few days. Moderate to serious reactions are uncommon and include non-stop crying for greater than 3 hours (1 in 1000 children); fever over 105 degrees (1 in 16,000 children); seizures (1 in 14,000 children).
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