Classification:
- Vaccine given to protect against tetanus and diphtheria infection.
Form:
- Intramuscular Injection
Recommendations:
The following people should be vaccinated:
- All adolescents and adults
- After the primary series has been completed, a booster dose is recommended every 5 to 10 years. Keep in mind that a primary series of 3 doses is required prior to boosters.
- A booster dose as early as 5 years later may be needed for the purpose of wound management.
Instructions:
- Give booster dose every 5-10 years after the primary series has been completed.
- For those who have not been vaccinated or are behind in their vaccination schedule, complete the primary series (spaced at 0 months, 1-2 months, 6-12 months intervals).
- Don't restart the series, no matter how long since the previous dose.
- May give with all other vaccines or as a separate injection.
Contraindications:
- Previous anaphylactic reaction to this vaccine or to any of its components.
- Moderate or severe acute illness.
- Pregnancy or breast feeding is NOT a contraindication.
More Information:
For information about the tetanus and diphtheria try About.com's Drug Finder.
More medication fact sheets
