Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis
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to Fact SheetsWhat is Tetanus?
Tetanus is caused by bacteria found in soil, dust, and manure. If these
bacteria get into an open wound or cut, the, poison from the germ can spread
to your nerves and then to your muscles. Muscles may lock in one place or go
into spasm (get very tight). This is very painful. In most cases, the first
muscles affected are in the jaw. You may not be able to swallow or open your
mouth. This is why tetanus is called lockjaw. If the poison gets to the
muscles that help you breathe, you can die quickly.
People who survive tetanus may have long-lasting problems with speech,
memory and thinking. Those who survive can still get tetanus again. For this
reason, they should get the vaccine to protect them in the future.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is an illness caused by bacteria that infect the nose, throat and
skin. It causes serious problems with breathing. It can also cause heart
failure and nerve damage that will affect you for the rest of your life.
Diphtheria is spread by close, direct contact between people. Sneezes or
coughs from a person with diphtheria can infect someone who doesn't have the
disease
Of every 10 people who get diphtheria, 1 will die from it. Babies who get it
are even more likely to die. There is no good treatment for diphtheria.
People who survive diphtheria can still get it again. For this reason, they
should get the vaccine to protect them in the future.
What is Pertussis?
Perusssis, or Whooping Cough, is caused by a bacteria. Symptoms include
runny nose, sneezing, fever, and cough. Over the course of 1-2 weeks, the
cough becomes worse. The infected person has bursts of coughing and
difficulty breathing, often followed by vomiting and exhaustion.
What is Adacel?
Adacel is a three-in-one vaccine, which protects against Tetanus,
Diphtheria, and Pertussis. It is generally given to adolescents 14-16 years
of age as part of their routine immunization schedule. Adacel can be given
at the same time as other vaccines. Booster doses of Tetanus and Diphtheria
should be given every 10 years.
Who should NOT get the Adacel vaccine?
- Anyone with an allergy to aluminum phosphate or
phenoxyethanol
- Anyone who has had a severe reaction to this vaccine,
or the Td vaccine in the past
- Anyone with a fever over 38.5 C (101 F)
- Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should speak
to their health care provider prior to receiving this vaccine
Are there any side effects of the vaccine?
Although side effects are rare, the most common side effects of the vaccine
are:
- Redness, soreness, and swelling at the injection site
- Other reactions may include fever, headache, nausea,
dizziness, fatigue, joint pain, and rashes and should subside in 1 to 2
days
- Allergic reactions like hives, wheezing, swelling of
the face and mouth are extremely rare, however if these symptoms occur,
seek medical attention immediately and let the Health Unit know about it
It is routine for you to sit and wait in the reception
area for 15 minutes after receiving this vaccine. Please advise the
receptionist immediately if you start to feel ill. |
Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
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