Immunization

Diphtheria

The Disease

Diphtheria used to be a major cause of childhood illness and death. Through the 1920's about 150,000 people got diphtheria each year in the United States and about 15,000 of them died. The word diphtheria struck fear into the hearts of parents in those days, but today there are only a few cases a year. This change is due largely to our parents and grandparents, who got their children immunized.

 

The Immunization

Diphtheria vaccine protects children by creating immunity to the toxin that causes symptoms of illness, rather than immunity to the bacteria itself. The vaccine includes a toxoid (an inactivated version of a toxin), and immunity is mounted against the toxin.

 

Recently a second diphtheria vaccine, Tdap, was added to the schedule for adolescents. It is recommended that adolescents receive this vaccine instead of Td.

 

Vaccine Recommendations

• AAP: Prevention of Pertussis Among Adolescents: Recommendations for Use of Tetanus Toxoid, Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine

• CDC: Preventing Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Among Adults: Use of Tetanus Toxoid, Reduced Diphtheria Toxoid and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine (Exit Site)

 

Quick Facts - What You Need to Know (PDF 26KB)

• Why get vaccinated?

• Who should get DTaP vaccine and when?

• Some people should not get DTaP vaccine or should wait

• What are the risks from DTaP vaccine?

• What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?

 

Other Resources

• DTP Vaccine Information Statement (Exit Site)

• CDC Diphtheria Page (Exit Site)

• Immunization Action Coalition Diphtheria Page (Exit Site)

• National Network for Immunization Information Diphtheria Page (Exit Site)