What is DTP Vaccine?
The DTP stands for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. This vaccine protects the child against:
Diphtheria: A severe throat infection that blocks the airway and causes breathing difficulty.
Tetanus (lockjaw): It is a nerve disease that can happen at any age and is caused by a toxin-producing bacteria that contaminates a wound.
Pertussis (whooping cough): It is a respiratory illness which has cold symptoms which further progress to serious coughing. There is a whooping sound produced when the child inhales deeply post a serious coughing bout.
Vaccine Schedule
The DTP vaccine has to be given in a series of five injections, at ages:
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2 months
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4 months
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6 months
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15-18 months
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4-6 years
Post the initial series, a vaccine known as Tdap (booster shot) must be given when the child is 11-12 of age.
Why Your Child Needs This Vaccine?
The DTP vaccine successfully eliminates diphtheria and tetanus in childhood. It has even reduced the number of pertussis cases. Giving your child this vaccine will ensure that he or she stays safe from these three dreadful diseases.
Risk Associated with the Vaccine
It can causes some mild side-effects that include fever, tiredness, lack of hunger, redness, or swelling near the injected area. In rare cases, the child can even have a breakdown or cry wildly after getting vaccinated.
When not to give the vaccine
You should avoid or delay the vaccination, if:
1. Your child is sick, (simple cold or mild illnesses won't be a problem when immunizing)
2. Your child encountered any allergic reaction during the previous vaccine dose
Child Care Post Vaccination
As said, the child can have mild fever or soreness as well as swelling near the injected area. You must check with the doctor and give the prescribed medication in the case of fever. For reducing soreness, you can place a mildly warm cloth or heat pad.
When to seek medical help
You must see a doctor in case you are unsure whether the vaccine needs to be postponed. Also, if your child shows up some severe complications like seizures, fever above 105°F, or signs of allergy, after getting the DTP vaccine.