Td/Tdap Immunizations

Programs that provide inoculations for adolescents and adults which protect them from contracting tetanus, diphtheria and/or pertussis (whooping cough) depending on which vaccines (Td or Tdap) are administered. Td is a tetanus-diphtheria vaccine given to adolescents and adults as a booster shot every 10 years, or after an exposure to tetanus under some circumstances. Tdap is similar to Td but also contains protection against pertussis; and can be given regardless of when Td was last received. Adolescents age 11-18 (preferably at the age of 11-12) and adults age 19 through 64 should receive a single dose of Tdap. Adults age 65 and older who have close contact with an infant and have not previously received Tdap, should also receive a single dose. Tdap should also be given to 7-10 year olds who are not fully immunized against pertussis. Inoculations are recommended for people in flooded areas who may be at risk of tetanus infections from dirty cuts, scrapes or puncture wounds.