<p><a href="https://medlineplus.gov/tetanus.html">Tetanus</a>, <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/diphtheria.html">diphtheria</a>, and <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/whoopingcough.html">pertussis</a> (whooping cough) are serious <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/bacterialinfections.html">bacterial infections</a>:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Tetanus</strong> is an uncommon disease that requires immediate treatment in a hospital. It causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to "locking" of the jaw.</li> <li><strong>Diphtheria</strong> usually affects the nose and throat. But it can also affect the skin and other body parts.</li> <li><strong>Whooping cough</strong> can cause uncontrollable coughing fits. It may begin like a <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/commoncold.html">cold</a>, but unlike a cold, the coughing can last for weeks or months.</li> </ul> <p>Vaccines can protect you from these diseases. In the U.S., there are three combination vaccines:</p> <ul> <li><strong>DTaP</strong> (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) prevents all three diseases. It is for babies and children under age 7. There are several different DTaP vaccines. Some of them also protect against other diseases.</li> <li><strong>Tdap</strong> (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) also prevents all three diseases. It is for older children and adults.</li> <li><strong>Td</strong> (tetanus and diphtheria) prevents those two diseases. It is for older children and adults. It is usually given as a booster dose every 10 years. You may also get it after 5 years if you get a severe or dirty wound or burn.</li> </ul> <p>Some people should not get these vaccines, including those who have had severe reactions to the shots before. Check with your health care provider first if you have <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/seizures.html">seizures</a>, a <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/neurologicdiseases.html">neurologic problem</a>, or <a href="https://medlineplus.gov/guillainbarresyndrome.html">Guillain-Barre syndrome</a>. </p> <p>People with minor illnesses such as a cold can get vaccinated. But those who are more ill may need wait until they feel better before getting some vaccines.</p> <p class="">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</p>