Tdap and related vaccines

The tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine protects against three diseases in one vaccine.

Other vaccines also protect from these three diseases, as well as some other diseases. Depending on your age or medical history, you may receive one of these vaccines instead of the Tdap vaccine. Review our vaccine fact sheets and additional resources for more information.

Who should get the Tdap vaccine?

The Tdap vaccine is available for anyone seven years of age and older.

Adults who have close contact with children under one year of age should get the pertussis vaccine.

Pregnant women should get the vaccine during each pregnancy to protect their baby from pertussis. The Tdap vaccine is best given between 27 and 32 weeks of pregnancy.

You should not get the Tdap vaccine if:

You have a high fever or serious infection worse than a cold
You have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of diphtheria, tetanus or pertussis vaccine
You have a serious allergy to latex or to any component of the vaccine (e.g., aluminum or 2-phenoxyethanol)

Eligibility

In Ontario, the Tdap vaccine is provided free of charge ten years after the 4–6 year tetanus vaccine. Adults are also eligible to receive one lifetime (publicly funded) dose of the vaccine. This lifetime dose replaces one tetanus and adult diphtheria (Td) vaccine dose given every ten years.

Update your personal vaccination record or ”yellow card“ after every vaccination. Keep it in a safe place.

Side Effects

Most reactions are mild and last only a few days after getting the vaccine. Mild pain, swelling and redness are common at the site where the needle was given. Some people may get a mild fever, headache, muscle aches, loss of appetite or feel tired for a day or two after the Tdap vaccine.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you: