TETANUS DIPHTHERIA WHOOPING COUGH/PERTUSIS (TdaP)

What is it?

Tetanus is a toxin produced by a bacteria that lives in soil

Diphtheria is caused by a bacteria that infects the respiratory system

Pertussis is a type of bacteria that causes whooping cough

How do I get these diseases?

Tetanus: From cuts that get dirt in them. Eg: falling off a motorbike and getting ‘road rash’

Diphtheria: From being around other people who carry the disease

Pertussis: Droplets spread from people that have the disease

What happens?

Tetanus: Can cause severe muscle spasms and admission to intensive care is often required

Symptoms can last for weeks

Without proper care it can be fatal

Diphtheria: Can be treated with antitoxin and antibiotics

Untreated it can be fatal

Pertussis: Fever, malaise and a barking cough which can last weeks

What can I do about it?

Vaccination is an effective prevention for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis

A booster should be given every 10 years

"The Burnaby location has very nice staff that makes your less than fun stay much better (who likes being stuck by one or more needles). They give vaccinations for basically anything that you could need wile out travelling the world. "
Mike G - Yelp