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Tetanus and Diphtheria Vaccine (Td)

By Mark Cichocki, R.N., About.com

Updated: November 30, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

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.

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