Tetanus, Diptheria, and Pertussis

What is Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis?

Tetanus is caused by a germ that enters the body through a cut or a wound. Tetanus (Lockjaw) causes painful tightening of the muscles all over the body and can also lead to "locking" of the jaw so the person cannot open his or her mouth. Diphtheria causes a thick coating in the nose, throat, and airway, which can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, and even death. Pertussis causes Whooping Cough which can be fatal for infants and children. It can cause a severe coughing illness in adults.

Td Vaccine

Td Vaccine is the vaccine for diphtheria and tetanus. Some side effects from the vaccine may be soreness of the arm, fever, and decreased appetite. An aspirin free pain reliever can be taken for 24 hours for relief of these symptoms.

Tdap Vaccine

The Tdap vaccine includes tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis. Current recommendations are that adults who received all of their childhood pertussis vaccines should receive one additional dose of pertussis vaccine. The pertussis vaccine is only available in combination with tetanus and diphtheria vaccines. Possible side effects for the Tdap are the same as for the Td above.

Recommendations for Entrance into Case:

  • Must get the Td Vaccine every 10 years
  • New Tdap Vaccine recommended for all students especially those in the Health Related Fields

Where Can I Get the Vaccines?

UHCS offers the Td and Tdap vaccine. Pricing can be found on the price list page.