What is tetanus?
Tetanus or lockjaw is a serious but rare disease that may occur when tetanus bacteria gets into a deep cut in the skin. Tetanus bacteria are found everywhere including soil, dust and animal manure and can survive for long periods in the soil as spores or particles. Tetanus causes cramping of the muscles in the neck, arms, legs and stomach, and painful convulsions. It may kill up to two out of every 10 people who get the disease. Tetanus does not spread from person-to-person.
What is diphtheria?
Diphtheria is a serious but very rare disease of the nose, throat and skin and can cause sore throat, fever and chills. The toxin or poison produced by the diphtheria bacteria may also lead to breathing problems, heart failure and nerve damage. Diphtheria may kill about one out of every 10 people who get the disease. It is most often passed to others through coughing, sneezing and articles like tissues used by a person with diphtheria.
Can tetanus and diphtheria be treated?
Tetanus and diphtheria are treated with antibiotics and medication that protects against the toxin or poison that are produced by the bacteria. However, even with prompt treatment, it is not always successful. People may require intensive care in a hospital if they have already absorbed the toxin or poison.
Who should be vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria?
Everyone should be vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria. Most people are vaccinated against these diseases in early childhood. A Td booster dose is recommended for teens between 14 and 16 years of age if they were vaccinated at an early age. Adults should get a booster every 10 years for continued protection. Individuals (age 7 and over) without documentation of Td vaccination should receive a series of three doses of Td. Td vaccine is also used when someone gets a deep cut to ensure they are protected against possible infection with the tetanus bacteria.
Who should not be vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria?
You should not be vaccinated if you have had a serious reaction to any part of the Td vaccine. It is best to wait at least 5 years between doses of Td vaccine since this reduces the risk of possible side effects.
What are the possible side effects of the vaccine?
Most people have no serious reactions from this combined vaccine. Some people may get redness, soreness or swelling at the injection site. These reactions are usually mild and last only a few days. Other mild reactions of tetanus vaccine include fever, headache and muscle aches.
Can this vaccine be given with other vaccines?
Yes. It is safe to give the Td vaccine with other vaccines. Giving different shots at the same time does not weaken the body’s response to them.
What else do I need to know about the tetanus and diphtheria vaccine?
In adults, the Td vaccine is injected into the muscle of the upper arm. Remember to tell your doctor or health care provider about any side effects you have had to vaccines or other medicine. It is also important to keep an up-to-date record of all your immunizations.
Where can I find more information?
For further information, ask your doctor or call Toronto Public Health Immunization Information Line at 416-392-1250.
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