The tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) booster helps protect against pertussis and 2 other serious diseases, tetanus and diphtheria.1,3
What is tetanus?
Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is not contagious, but it can be extremely dangerous to you. The tetanus toxins can spread throughout the body, causing painful muscle spasms—sometimes strong enough to break bones. Tetanus is serious, and can even be fatal.4
What is diphtheria?
Diphtheria may start out as a sore throat, fever, and chills, but as the disease progresses, toxins can cause serious complications such as heart failure or paralysis.4
Startling statistics
- There are only about 50 cases of tetanus each year in the United States, but 1 out of every 10 people who gets tetanus dies from it4
- Most people who get tetanus are not adequately immunized4
- 1 out of 10 people who get diphtheria will die from it4
- Diphtheria is contagious for 2–4 weeks4
Get vaccinated
The Tdap booster can help protect against all 3 diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated.
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