What is tetanus and diphtheria toxoids vaccine?
Diphtheria and tetanus are serious diseases caused by bacteria.
Diphtheria can cause breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, or death.
Tetanus (lockjaw) causes painful tightening of the muscles that can lead to "locking" of the jaw so the victim cannot open the mouth, swallow, or breathe. Tetanus can lead to death.
Diphtheria is spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through a cut or wound.
The tetanus and diphtheria vaccine (also called Td) is used to help prevent these diseases. This vaccine helps your body develop immunity to the disease, but will not treat an active infection you already have.
Td vaccine is for use in adults and children at least 7 years old.
Like any vaccine, the Td vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.