What are diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccines?
Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis are serious diseases caused by bacteria. Diphtheria causes a thick coating in the nose, throat, and airway. It can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, and even death. Tetanus (lockjaw) causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to “locking” of the jaw so the victim cannot open his mouth or swallow. Tetanus leads to death in about 1 out of 10 cases. Pertussis (whooping cough) causes coughing so severe that it is hard for infants to eat, drink, or breathe. These spells can last for weeks. It can lead to pneumonia, seizures (convulsions), brain damage, and death. Diphtheria and pertussis are spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through cuts or wounds. Vaccines for these diseases expose the individual to a small amount of the bacteria, helping the body develop immunity to the disease. Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine (DTaP) can help prevent these diseases. Most children who
