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Tetanus and Diphtheria Vaccine for Adults

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

Tetanus, also called lockjaw, causes your muscles to tighten. Diphtheria (dip-THEER-ee-uh) is a throat infection. You can get tetanus from an injury or a dirty wound. Tetanus is not contagious. Diphtheria, on the other hand, is easily spread from person to person. You can get a shot for tetanus alone or a combined tetanus/diphtheria (""DT'') shot that will prevent you from developing either of these serious diseases. After getting your first shot, you will need another in 2 months and a third 8 to 14 months later. After this, you will need a ""booster'' shot at least every 10 years.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • The shot may cause pain, redness, and swelling at the site of the injection (usually the arm). Other potential side effects include chills, fever, and body aches.
    • You may take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain.
    • To reduce tenderness and swelling, apply cold compresses to the injection site.

Call Your Doctor If...

  • The shot site stays tender, red, or swollen for more than 48 hours.
  • You develop a high temperature, or the fever lasts more than 48 hours.
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