DTP vaccine (whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus)
DTP · DTaP · whooping cough vaccine · tetanus shot · diphtheria vaccine
A combined vaccine injection that protects against whooping cough, diphtheria and tetanus. Children get several shots on schedule.
For children on the national vaccination schedule, and for adults as a booster against diphtheria and tetanus, usually every 10 years.
⏱ Duration: the shot takes a few seconds; with the check-up usually 15 to 40 minutes
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Health. The vaccine is given when your child is healthy. Your child will be examined before the shot.
- Schedule. Ask your pediatrician for the dates of all the shots in the course.
- Fever medicine. Ask the doctor which fever reducer to keep at home in case of a fever.
What to bring
- Your ID
- The vaccination certificate or record
- A favorite toy for your child
How it goes
- The doctor examines your child and takes the temperature
- You hold your child in your arms or on your lap
- The skin is wiped and the shot is given in the thigh or arm
- The vaccine is recorded in the documents
- After the shot, stay at the clinic for about 30 minutes
What you'll feel
- A quick shot. Your child may cry for a bit
- Sometimes redness and a firm lump at the spot for 1 to 2 days
- Sometimes fever, fussiness, poor appetite
Afterwards
- Stay near the office for 30 minutes
- At home offer more drinks and dress your child lightly
- Next shot on schedule
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Trouble breathing, a swollen face, a rash all over: call your local emergency number
- Seizures: call your local emergency number
- High fever that does not come down, or crying nonstop for several hours: see a doctor urgently
Common questions
Is it true that DTP is a hard vaccine?
Reactions are more common than with some others, but they are usually mild and pass in 1 to 3 days.
Do adults need a tetanus shot?
Yes, a booster is usually given every 10 years. Check with your doctor.