DTaP vaccination or Tdap immunization (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis)
What is the DTAP vaccine?
If you are traveling in the next few months, our physicians at MyConciergeMD encourage you to quickly review your vaccination history and receive any boosters or missed vaccinations before you depart. Likewise, if you are traveling with young children our physicians strongly recommend the child receive any vaccinations per CDC schedule, especially the DTP vaccine or TDAP, if applicable.
The DTP vaccination is a combination vaccine used to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The vaccination usually administered to children under the age of 7, and a booster shot is recommended every ten years. Women who are pregnant in their third trimester often receive the vaccination along with any caretakers who will be around the infant.
If you have not been vaccinated for diphtheria/tetanus/pertussis, it is strongly recommended that you receive one and required by some countries you may wish to travel to.
What does the vaccination defend against?
Tdap vaccination is crucial for preventing the following ailments:
Diphtheria – Diphtheria is an infection that affects the nose and throat. Signs of diphtheria often appear five days after becoming infected. Dense, gray matter is usually seen covering the throat, compromising breathing. Chills, fatigue, fever, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, and swollen neck (“bull neck”) are common signs of the disease. Though rare, diphtheria may be fatal.
Tetanus – This bacterial infection is often accompanied by muscle spasms, fever, stiffness, severe pain, and lockjaw. Tetanus can be transferred through contact with a rusty or contaminated metal object.
Pertussis – Pertussis is more commonly known as “whooping cough” and is a highly infectious condition causing symptoms that include: runny nose, fever, severe cough lasting for more than one week.