Diphtheria And Tetanus (DT) Vaccine FAQs
Q: What are Diphtheria and Tetanus?
A: Diphtheria is an acute and highly infectious disease which is caused by a bacterium. The disease is transmitted through contact with an infected person, contaminated objects, or droplet infection, that is, by sneezing, coughing or talking. This disease affects the membrane in the throat which hinders breathing and swallowing and can lead to death.
Tetanus is a serious bacterial disease that affects the nervous system, leading to painful muscle contractions, particularly of the jaw and neck muscles. Tetanus can interfere with one’s ability to breathe and can threaten one’s life. Tetanus is commonly known as "lockjaw."
Q: At what age do persons usually receive the Diphtheria and Tetanus vaccine?
A: The vaccine is given to children at 2, 4, 6, 18 months and 3 years 9 months old.
Q: What are the side effects of this vaccine?
A: Like with many vaccines, this vaccine can cause soreness in the injection site and a mild fever.
Q: Where can children receive these vaccines?
A: The Vaccines are given to children at the Child Health clinic at their Health centre or at the Ministry of Public Health’s Vaccination Centre