Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine

Immunizations play a vital role in maintaining your well-being. They safeguard your health and help shield those around you from contagious, potentially serious illnesses.

At Aurora Health Care, our team of preventive care experts provides all the routine vaccines you need. With multiple convenient locations across Wisconsin, we strive to make accessing your care as easy as possible.

What is the Td vaccine?

The tetanus-diphtheria (Td) vaccine is an injection that protects against tetanus and diphtheria. It is typically administered as a booster shot to maintain immunity after you’ve received your initial vaccinations during childhood. Other names for the Td vaccine include:

• Td booster
• Td shot
• Tetanus booster
• Tetanus shot

What is the difference between the Td and Tdap vaccines?

While the Td vaccine guards against tetanus and diphtheria, the Tdap vaccine also protects against pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough. Whooping cough is particularly risky for infants under 6 months old and young children. Health care providers recommend that pregnant women and people who come into contact with newborns or young children receive the Tdap vaccine instead of the Td vaccine. Learn more about the recommended vaccinations during pregnancy.

What is the tetanus-diphtheria vaccine for?

The tetanus-diphtheria vaccine strengthens your immune system against two severe diseases:

• Diphtheria is a contagious bacterial infection. Diphtheria can lead to the formation of a thick coating in your throat that can obstruct breathing. Complications of diphtheria include heart failure, paralysis and even death. Thankfully, vaccination has resulted in a 99% decrease in diphtheria.
• Tetanus is a bacterial infection that can enter the body through a contaminated wound or cut. Also known as lockjaw, tetanus causes painful muscle stiffness throughout the body. In severe cases, it can lead to breathing difficulties and even death.

Who should get the Td or Tdap vaccine?

Health care providers recommend that all children age 7 and older and all adults receive either the Td or Tdap vaccine. Whooping cough is dangerous for those 60 years or older, and individuals with chronic lung disease such as asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). People who may need a Tdap booster shot rather than Td are:

• Health care workers who have direct patient contact
• Adults who have never received Tdap
• Anyone with a severe burn or wound  

Who should not get the Td vaccine?

The Td vaccine is generally safe for most people. However, there are a few rare exceptions when it may not be suitable for you. Talk with your health care provider if you have a history of:

• Allergic reactions to any vaccines
• Guillain-Barre syndrome
• Severe pain or side effects after a previous tetanus-diphtheria vaccine

Td vaccine side effects

Some people experience side effects after the Td vaccine. Any side effects are typically mild and go away within one to two days. You may experience:

• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Reactions at the injection site, such as redness, swelling or soreness

When is the tetanus-diphtheria vaccine given?

Doctors typically recommend receiving the Td vaccine every 10 years. If you sustain a severe burn or wound, you may need a booster dose within five years.

You can still receive the Td vaccine if you have a mild cold. However, if you are seriously ill or have a fever, wait until you recover. You can get Td vaccines at the same time as other vaccines.

How long does a tetanus shot last?

Babies and children under 12 require six tetanus shots at specific intervals. This establishes their immunity against the infection. Afterward, your tetanus booster shot protects you for about 10 years. Find out more about children’s vaccinations.