What You Need to Know About the Tdap Vaccine

The Tdap vaccine is a combination immunization dose that protects children and adults from three different bacterial infections. The diseases covered in this vaccine are Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (whooping cough). Tetanus and Diphtheria have almost entirely been eliminated from the United States with proper immunization. However, the cases of whooping cough are on the rise recently. Therefore, it is essential to get a shot from your nearby vaccination clinic in New Jersey.

Which Infections are Prevented by the Tdap Vaccine?

The Tdap vaccine stands for Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular Pertussis. These infections have been quite prevalent and life-threatening in the United States. However, most of it has been controlled with continuous immunization.

Tetanus infection is usually contracted through an open wound or a cut. This infection is caused by the tetanus virus which is usually prevalent in soil and other surfaces. It affects the brain and nervous system and causes extremely painful muscle spasms, which is why it is often called the “lockjaw” condition.

In the early 19th century, diphtheria was also a very contagious infection that made it difficult for patients to breathe. In severe cases, it has also been reported to cause heart and nerve damage.

Pertussis or whooping cough, on the other hand, is currently a contagious respiratory infection that also has similar symptoms as that of Diphtheria. However, unfortunately, whooping cough is much more dangerous as it is mostly contracted by infants. Pertussis shows itself as an ordinary cold but soon intensifies into uncontrollable coughing fits. It is known to be so severe that patients have been known to crack ribs, burst arteries, and even develop hernias due to this.

What is the Course of Vaccination?

The CDC recommends the Tdap vaccination to be given at 2, 4, and 6 months, at 15 through 18 months, and to 4 to 6 years old children.

For those kids who haven't received the vaccination till they are 7, the CDC recommends a vaccine to be administered between 7 to 10 years of age and a booster shot to be given once every 10 years.

For adults, from ages 19 and older who have never received the vaccination, one dose of Tdap is sufficient.

Moreover, healthcare workers who have direct contact with patients susceptible to these conditions must be regular with their vaccination. Also, the caregivers of infants including parents, grandparents, and babysitters must be immunized with the Tdap vaccine.

Lastly, pregnant women in their third trimester or new mothers who have never been vaccinated should also get a shot.

Hence, if you fall in any of the above-mentioned categories, schedule your Tdap vaccination with the best vaccination clinic, NJ Doctors Urgent Care, today.