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DTaP

Toxoid

Diphtheria, Tetanus, acellular Pertussis

Manufacturer

Sanofi Pasteur (Daptacel), GSK (Infanrix)

Administration

Intramuscular (IM)

Site: Anterolateral thigh (infants), Deltoid (older children)

Storage

Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.

Schedule

5 doses for children < 7 years

Interval: 2, 4, 6, 15-18 mos, 4-6 yrs

Indications

  • Routine childhood immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.

Target Ages:

2 months4 months6 months15-18 months4-6 years

Contraindications & Precautions

Contraindications

  • Encephalopathy within 7 days of previous dose

Precautions

  • Fever > 105°F within 48h of previous dose
  • Collapse or shock-like state within 48h
  • Seizures within 3 days of previous dose

Side Effects

Common (Expected)

Injection site pain/rednessLow-grade feverFussinessLoss of appetite

Rare Adverse Events

  • Seizures (febrile)
  • Hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode
  • Anaphylaxis

Clinical Information

Effectiveness

Highly effective (98% for tetanus/diphtheria, 80-90% for pertussis).

Patient Counseling

  • Expect mild fussiness and low-grade fever.
  • Use cool compress for injection site pain.
  • Seek care if fever > 105°F or prolonged crying > 3 hours.