What is the Tdap Vaccine?
- The Tdap vaccination protects against tetanus (lockjaw), diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough), three contagious bacterial diseases.
- Most children get vaccinated against these diseases before starting kindergarten, but the protection wears off as kids get older. Preteens and teens need a booster shot, known as Tdap.
What are the Tdap Diseases?
- Tetanus is caused by bacteria that are usually found in soil, dust, and manure. These bacteria enter the body through breaks in the skin, usually cuts. Tetanus is often called "lockjaw" because the jaw muscles tighten and the person cannot open his mouth. Other symptoms include headache, muscle spasms, and trouble swallowing.
- Diphtheria is caused by a bacteria that is spread from person to person, usually through coughing and sneezing. Diphtheria causes a thick covering in the back of the throat. It can lead to difficulty breathing, heart failure, paralysis, and even death.
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a very contagious disease caused by a bacteria that is spread from person to person, usually through coughing and sneezing. The disease usually starts with cold-like symptoms and maybe a mild cough or fever. After 1 to 2 weeks, coughing fits, vomiting, and exhaustion may appear.
Who Should Get the Tdap Vaccination?
- The Tdap vaccine is recommended for preteens ages 11 to 12.
- Getting this booster not only protects preteens and teens, but also the people around them--especially little babies and elders, who are very vulnerable to whooping cough.
- Tdap is now required for children in Tennessee before starting 7th grade.
- Teens ages 13-18 years old who haven't gotten the Tdap shot yet should talk with their parents and their doctor about getting it now.
Get More Info:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
Personal Testimony -- A Mother and Son Infected with Pertussis (National Foundation of Infectious Diseases)
Vaccines 4 Preteens
Phone: 6158750993
2525 West End, Suite 800 Nashville TN 37203 US