What is the DTP vaccine?
The DTP vaccine is made from dead pertussis germs, and the toxoids (toxins) of diphtheria and tetanus germs. Toxoids are also dead and help your body’s defense system fight infection. This vaccine is no longer used in the United States. What is the DTaP vaccine? The DTaP vaccine is the shot currently used in the United States for children. The DTaP is given to help prevent diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. The DTaP vaccine uses acellular pertussis meaning only parts of the pertussis germ are in the vaccine. Who should get the DTaP vaccine, and when? Children usually get five doses of the DTaP vaccine. The number and schedule of DTaP shots (doses) depend on the person’s age. The DTaP vaccine is only given to children less than seven years old. How many shots your child gets will also depend on if they have had any previous shots. Your child may get the first dose as early as two months of age. This vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines. DTaP is usually given to your
