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Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine

This page was reviewed or revised on Friday, September 30, 2011 2:54 PM

Environmental Health and Prevention Services

Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) vaccine protects people against two serious diseases: tetanus and diphtheria. It is given to people who are 7 years of age or older.

What is tetanus?

Tetanus is also called lockjaw. It is a serious disease that can happen if dirt with the tetanus germ gets into a cut in the skin. Even with early treatment, tetanus kills 2 out of every 10 people who get it.

What is diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a disease of the nose, throat and skin. It can cause breathing problems, heart failure and nerve damage. Diphtheria kills 1 out of every 10 people who get the disease.

How well does Td vaccine protect against tetanus and diphtheria?

Td vaccine protects more than 9 out of 10 people who get all their needles.

When should Td vaccine be given?

Most people are vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria in early childhood. Around the 15th birthday, a Td Pertussis booster is given to people who were vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria at an early age. Adults should get a Td booster every 10 years.

Is Td vaccine safe? 

Yes. Serious side effects from Td vaccine are rare.

Mild pain, swelling and redness are common for a few days at the spot where the needle was given. A few people may get a mild fever, lose their appetite or feel tired for a day or two.

When should I call my health care provider?

If any of these symptoms happen with 3 days after the needle:

• itching or hives
• flushing of the skin
• trouble breathing
• swelling of the face or mouth
• fast heart beat

Who should NOT get Td vaccine?

The doctor or nurse may decide not to give Td vaccine if the person is ill with a fever or infection worse than a cold.

Severe reactions are rare. However, you should wait 15 minutes after your injection before leaving.

Report any severe reaction to your health care provider or to Community Health Services Department.

Who should I talk to if I have questions about the Td vaccine?

Talk to your health care provider or call the Community Health Services 519 383-8331 for more information.

Call the Community Health Services Department at 519-383-8331 to update your (and your family's) immunization record when you receive a vaccine at your health care providers office.