The Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Vaccine at Bergen New Bridge
We offer multiple brands of vaccines for tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. The different brands may contain protection against other vaccines, have different levels of defense against the diseases, and may not include antibodies for all three conditions. Our clinicians will work with you to determine what is best for you or your loved ones.
- Boostrix®, for Tdap, is the brand name for a vaccine against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) for patients 10 years and older.
- DAPTACEL®, for DTaP, is the brand name for a vaccine against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) for children 6 weeks through 6 years old (i.e., before the 7th birthday).
Locations
You can get your Boostrix® or DAPTACEL® shot at one of our CareRite Now centers:
New Milford (for hours and directions)
Wallington (for hours and directions)
Appointments are available. Walk-ins accepted.
What Is Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis?
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) are serious bacterial infections:
- Tetanus causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body and is often called lock jaw.
- Diphtheria usually affects the nose and throat, often with fever and weakness.
- Pertussis, or whooping cough, causes uncontrollable coughing.
- Vaccines can protect you from these diseases. In the U.S., there are four combination vaccines:
Protecting Yourself
Diphtheria can be severe and can be prevented with our vaccines. Even if you had diphtheria, you still may not be immune. If you are unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated and recovering from diphtheria, you should begin or complete getting your diphtheria shots.
Because of the extreme strength of the bacteria, tetanus disease does not result in tetanus protection. We recommend you protect yourself or your loved ones with one of the versions of vaccines we offer. When you have a severe cut or wound, and you are not vaccinated or have not received a booster recently, we urge you to get a tetanus shot as soon as possible.
The Boostrix vaccine creates proteins called antibodies in your immune system to help fight infection and protect you from getting sick in the future. People with antibodies from an infection from the Boostrix virus can improve their level of protection by getting vaccinated. The Boostrix shots we offer help protect you from getting sick and help keep you out of the hospital.
Protecting Others
TDAP can be extra tough on some people, especially those who are very young, older or pregnant and those with health problems. By getting the Boostrix shot, you’re looking out for yourself and helping protect these vulnerable groups.
Stopping the Spread
Tetanus, diphtheria, or pertussis are very contagious. When you’re sick with any of these diseases, you can spread them to others by coughing or sneezing. Even if you feel okay, you might still carry the virus. Getting the Boostrix shot lowers your chances of catching and passing the virus to your friends and family.
Stay Up to Date
So, get your Boostrix booster shot to protect you, your loved ones, and those around you. Getting the Boostrix shot is a wise and caring thing to do for your health and the health of your community.
A Tdap vaccine is recommended for most people aged 6 months and older.
