What is the TdaP vaccine?
Tetanus is an acute disease illness caused by Clostridium tetani spores. The spores are found everywhere in the environment, mainly in ash, soil, digestive systems of humans and animals, and on the surfaces of skin and rusted implements such as nails, needles, and barbed wire. The spores can persist for years since they are resistant to heat and most antiseptics. Tetanus can affect anybody, but it is most prevalent and dangerous among newborns and pregnant women who have not been adequately inoculated with tetanus-toxoid-containing vaccinations.
Diphtheria is a dangerous infection caused by bacteria strains named Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which produce a toxin (poison). It can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis, and even death. Diphtheria can also be spread through contact with open wounds or ulcers containing bacteria.
Pertussis, sometimes known as whooping cough, is a contagious respiratory infection. The bacteria Bordetella pertussis causes it. Pertussis is characterized by uncontrolled, violent coughing that often makes breathing difficult. Pertussis patients frequently need to take long breaths after coughing fits, which results in a “whooping” sound. Pertussis can affect people of all ages, but it is more dangerous, if not fatal, for newborns under a year old.
A TdaP vaccine plan will be recommended by doctors depending on your age and vaccination history:
- Tdap 1 dose for children aged 11 to 12 years.
- 1 dosage Tdap throughout each pregnancy, preferably between weeks 27 and 36.
Tdap vaccine composition
Tdap is an inactive vaccine, which means it is manufactured from dead bacteria. You cannot become ill from dead bacteria. TdaP is not the same as DTaP, the vaccination that is used to prevent the same infections in children under the age of 7.
Who should get the Tdap vaccine?
If you’re 18 or older, the CDC recommends getting TdaP instead of your next Td (tetanus and diphtheria) booster if you’ve never had the TdaP vaccination. Td boosters are typically administered every ten years with a single injection in the upper arm.
If you anticipate having close contact with a newborn less than 12 months you shouldreceive the vaccination at least 2 weeks before holding an infant. If you are pregnant, you should obtain a TdaP booster before the 10-year gap.
Contact us
In case of urgent medical care assistance, AfterOurs Urgent Care offers immediate telemedicine services, where medical providers are available to offer assistance. Anyone who experiences signs and symptoms requiring urgent medical attention can simply book their appointment with AfterOurs Urgent Care to directly talk to an expert. If your medical issue is not appropriate for telemedicine, we will let you know and refer you to an in-person facility.
Tdap shots are available at AfterOurs Urgent Care.
For more information on tdap shots, see the following website:
https://www.afteroursinc.com/