DTaP immunization (vaccine)

A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Immunizations

DTaP immunization is a combination vaccine that protects against three bacterial illnesses: Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).

See also: Tdap vaccine

The DTaP vaccine is highly effective for the prevention of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis -- all of which are serious diseases. Before DTaP, these diseases often lead to serious medical problems and even death.

DTaP is given by a shot (injection), usually into the arm or thigh. The DTaP vaccine may be given alone or as part of another vaccine, such as Pentacel (DTaP-Hib-IPV) or Pediarix (DTaP-HepB-IPV).

WHO SHOULD GET THIS VACCINE

---

---

DTaP vaccination is one of the recommended childhood immunizations. That means, health experts believe all children should get this vaccine.

DTaP vaccine can be safely given to infants. Five DTaP vaccines are recommended. They are usually given to children at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years. DTaP immunization is generally required before a child can start school.

DTaP is recommended unless there is a reason that the child should not receive the pertussis vaccine (such as an allergic reaction), in which case a vaccine against diphtheria and tetanus (DT vaccine) only should be given.

RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

DTaP may cause the following mild side effects, which usually only last a few days:

• Fever
• Crankiness
• Soreness at the injection site
• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be used to treat common, minor side effects of fussiness, soreness, and fever after the immunization. However, there is some evidence that the use of acetaminophen before the immunization may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. A warm, damp cloth or a heating pad may also help to reduce soreness. Frequently moving or using the arm or leg that has received the injection is recommended and often reduces the soreness.

Moderate to serious reactions are uncommon. They may include:

• Non-stop crying for more than 3 hours (1 in 1,000 children)
• Fever over 105 degrees (1 in 16,000 children)
• Seizures (1 in 14,000 children)