What is DTaP vaccine, and is it really a must for my child?
In this day and age, parents must ensure their children are immunised against vaccine-preventable diseases. These include diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus. This article aims to provide parents with information to learn more about what the DTap vaccine is.
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What Is the DTaP Vaccine?
DTaP stands for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. This vaccine is given to children under seven years old. It’s to protect them from these three diseases.
Image Source: iStock
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a contagious infection that causes a thick covering of tissue in the tonsils and throat. This covering can make it difficult or painful to breathe or swallow food.
Early symptoms of diphtheria may resemble a common cold but can progress to something more serious. Within two to five days, a thin, grey coating will form on the back of the throat. This coating can make breathing difficult. And cause a distinctive muffled sound when speaking.
As the infection progresses, the grey coating will thicken. It will develop a leathery texture. In severe cases, the layer can completely block the airway, leading to suffocation. Diphtheria can also cause swelling of the neck due to an accumulation of fluid in the lymph nodes.
Other symptoms include fever, chills, weakness, and a loss of appetite. If left untreated, diphtheria can be fatal. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing serious complications.
The DTaP vaccine prevents this by training the immune system to recognise diphtheria before an infection.
Tetanus
Tetanus is a bacterial infection. One that affects the nervous system and can cause muscle spasms. The bacteria usually enter the body through a cut or wound and it often takes several weeks for symptoms to appear.
Early symptoms of tetanus include headache, fever, and sweating. As the infection progresses, muscle spasms may begin. It often starts in the jaw (hence the nickname “lockjaw”). The cramps can affect any muscle in the body and can be so severe that they break bones.
Tetanus can be fatal if not treated with antibiotics. Vaccination is the best way to prevent tetanus. And all children should receive the vaccine as part of their routine immunisations.
Pertussis
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory infection. The main symptom is a severe hacking cough that can last for weeks or even months. Other symptoms include runny nose, fever, and exhaustion.
Pertussis is most seen in infants and young children but can occur at any age. The best way to prevent pertussis is to get vaccinated. The pertussis vaccine is given as part of the DTaP immunization. It’s typically given to infants and young children.
But, booster shots are recommended for adolescents and adults. It’s to protect them from this potentially deadly disease.
Tap, tetanus, diptheria, and pertussis, vaccine | Image from iStock.
DTap vs Tdap
Choosing a suitable vaccine for your child can be confusing. But, it is crucial to understand the difference between DTap and Tdap, especially before deciding which one is right for your family.
DTap is a vaccine that protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. It is typically given to children under the age of 7.
Tdap is a booster shot that is recommended for adolescents and adults. It includes protection against all the same diseases as DTap. But it offers extra protection against pertussis.
If you are unsure which vaccine is suitable for your child, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help you make the best decision for your family.
Benefits of the DTap Vaccine
The DTaP vaccine protects against three deadly diseases. These are diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough). The DTaP vaccine is a series of shots, most of the time starting at two months of age.
The vaccine is safe and effective and is the best way to protect your child from these severe diseases. Boosters are recommended for both adolescents and adults to maintain their immunity.
The DTaP vaccine is an essential part of protecting your family’s health. The DTaP vaccine does not protect against all types of pertussis, so getting the booster shot is vital if you plan on having more children.
The DTaP vaccine is vital to maintaining your family’s health. It will protect them from serious harm. Talk to your doctor today about getting the DTaP vaccine for your family.
Who Should Get the DTaP Vaccine and When?
The DTaP vaccine is usually for children under the age of 7, children at two, four, and six months. A booster dose is then given at eighteen months, and a final booster between the ages of four and six.
In certain circumstances, older children and adults may also need to be vaccinated. For example, people not fully vaccinated as children may need a booster shot. Pregnant women may need to receive the vaccine to protect their babies.
Also, people who work with young children or are likely to come into contact with someone with pertussis should also get the vaccine. The DTaP vaccine is safe and effective and essential to protecting yourself. It also protects your community from these deadly diseases.
Image Source: Stock
How Is the DTaP Vaccine Administered?
The DTaP vaccine is given as an injection (shot) in the arm or leg. The vaccine is usually given to children at these ages: 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15 to 18 months, and 4 to 6 years. Older children, adolescents, and adults may also need the DTaP vaccine. The number of doses you need depends on your age when you first start the vaccine series and other factors.
What Are the Side Effects of the DTaP Vaccine?
DTaP vaccines are very safe, but they are not risk-free. As with any medicine, there is a slight chance of side effects. These are usually minor and go away on their own, but severe reactions are also possible.
Call the doctor immediately if your child has a more severe reaction after a DTaP shot. A severe reaction would be a seizure (convulsion). Another is difficulty breathing or weakness/paralysis that lasts more than 24 hours. This is after your health provider gives the shot.
If your child experiences any of these symptoms after a DTaP vaccination, get medical attention right away. Tell the doctor that your child had a previous severe reaction after a DTaP vaccination. DTaP vaccine can occasionally cause fever more than 30 days after immunisation (long-term fever).
READ MORE:
Diphtheria, a deadly infection, detected in Singapore after 25 years
Caring For Your Child After the Vaccine
Parents, take note of these reminders:
- Give your child a dose of acetaminophen (or ask their paediatrician for a recommended pain reliever) to help with any fever or soreness at the injection site.
- Watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives. Seek medical attention immediately if your child experiences any of these symptoms.
- Keep your child hydrated and encourage rest to help their immune system recover from the vaccine.
- If your child develops a fever or experiences discomfort, apply a cool compress to the injection site or give them a warm bath to soothe the area.
- Monitor your child for any changes in behaviour or mood after the vaccination, as some children may experience irritability or drowsiness.
What to Do if You Experience Any Side Effects From the DTaP Vaccine?
How Long Does the Immunity From DTaP Vaccine Last?
CDC, KidsHealth, WebMD, CHOP
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