Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids, Pediatric (DT)
Generic name: diphtheria and tetanus toxoids vaccine (DT, pediatric) [ dif-THEER-ee-a-TET-a-nus-TOX-oids ]
Brand names: Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids, Pediatric (DT)
Drug class:Vaccine combinations
What is Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids, Pediatric (DT)?
Diphtheria and tetanus are serious diseases caused by bacteria.
Diphtheria can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, or death.
Tetanus (lockjaw) causes painful tightening of the muscles that can lead to "locking" of the jaw so the victim cannot open the mouth, swallow, or breathe. Tetanus can lead to death.
Diphtheria is spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through a cut or wound.
The Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids, Pediatric (DT) (also called DT) is used to help prevent these diseases in children between the ages of 6 weeks and 6 years old (before the 7th birthday).
This vaccine helps your child's body develop immunity to these diseases, but will not treat an active infection the child already has.
Like any vaccine, the Diphtheria-Tetanus Toxoids, Pediatric (DT) may not provide protection from disease in every person.
Warnings
Becoming infected with diphtheria or tetanus is much more dangerous to your child's health than receiving this vaccine.
Before taking this medicine
Your child should not receive this vaccine if he or she has ever had a life threatening allergic reaction to any vaccine containing diphtheria or tetanus.
Tell the vaccination provider if your child was born prematurely, or if the child has ever had Guillain-Barré syndrome (within 6 weeks after receiving a tetanus vaccine).
Your child can still receive a vaccine if he or she has a minor cold. In the case of a more severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until the child gets better before receiving this vaccine.
The pediatric version of this vaccine (DT) should not be given to anyone who is 7 years or older. Another vaccine is available for use in older children and adults.
How is this vaccine given?
This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle.
This vaccine is given in a series of shots starting as early as 6 weeks of age. The first shot is usually given when the child is 2 months old.
The booster shots are then given at 4 months, 6 months, and 15 to 18 months of age, and again between 4 and 6 years of age.
Your child's booster schedule may be different from these guidelines. Follow your doctor's instructions or the schedule recommended by your local health department.
