Overview
The Tdap vaccine protects against three bacteria: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). These bacteria can have severe consequences and can be deadly.
Childhood recommendations
Tdap is only for children 7 years and older, adolescents, and adults.
Adolescents should receive a dose of Tdap, preferably at age 11 or 12 years.
Adult recommendations
All adults should get a Tdap or Td vaccine every 10 years, or after five years in the case of a severe or dirty wound or burn.
All pregnant patients should receive a Tdap vaccine during every pregnancy in the early part of the third trimester. Tdap is given during pregnancy so that antibodies to whooping cough can be made by the mother and passed to the baby. This offers the baby protection against whooping cough for the first few months of life. The vaccine must be given during each pregnancy to ensure the baby receives the highest number of protective antibodies and has the best protection.
Immunization schedules
Childhood schedules:
Adult schedule: