TETANUS, DIPHTHERIA (Td)

FACT SHEET
TETANUS, DIPHTHERIA (Td)
What is Tetanus?
Tetanus is caused by bacteria found in soil, dust, and manure. If these bacteria get into an
open wound or cut, the, poison from the germ can spread to your nerves and then to your
muscles. Muscles may lock in one place or go into spasm (get very tight). This is very
painful. In most cases, the first muscles affected are in the jaw. You may not be able to
swallow or open your mouth. This is why Tetanus is called lockjaw. If the poison gets to
the muscles that help you breathe, you can die quickly.
People who survive Tetanus may have long-lasting problems with speech, memory and
thinking. Those who survive can still get Tetanus again. For this reason, they should get
the vaccine to protect them in the future.
What is Diphtheria?
Diphtheria is an illness caused by bacteria that infect the nose, throat and skin. It causes
serious problems with breathing. It can also cause heart failure and nerve damage that
will affect you for the rest of your life.
Diphtheria is spread by close, direct contact between people. Sneezes or coughs from a
person with diphtheria can infect someone who does not have the disease
Of every 10 people who get Diphtheria, 1 will die from it. Babies who get it are even
more likely to die. There is no good treatment for diphtheria. People who survive
Diphtheria can still get it again. For this reason, they should get the vaccine to protect
them in the future.
Tetanus, Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine
The Td vaccine is indicated for anyone 7 years of age and older. Most people are
vaccinated against tetanus and diphtheria in early childhood. Provincial law requires
vaccination against Tetanus and Diphtheria for all children attending school in Ontario.
Adults should get Td vaccine boosters every 10 years for continued protection, and
ensure immunizations are up to date before travel.
DCS-12-05-VPD-045

Who should NOT get the Td vaccine?
‣ Anyone with an allergy to any component of this vaccine including aluminium
phosphate, formaldehyde, or thimerosal
‣ Anyone who has had a severe reaction to this vaccine in the past
‣ Anyone with a fever over 38.5° C (101° F)
Are there any side effects of the vaccine?
Although side effects are rare, the most common side effects of the vaccine are:
‣ Redness, soreness, and swelling at the injection site
‣ Other reactions may include fever, headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, joint
pain, and rashes and should subside in 1 to 2 days
‣ Allergic reactions like hives, wheezing, swelling of the face and mouth are
extremely rare, however if these symptoms occur, seek medical attention
immediately and let the Health Unit know about it
It is routine for you to sit and wait in the reception area for 15 minutes after
receiving this vaccine. Please advise the receptionist immediately if you start to feel
ill.
DCS-12-05-VPD-045