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DTaP vaccine

The DTaP vaccine protects against three serious diseases: diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough). It is typically given in a series of shots during childhood to build strong immunity.

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Looking for information about the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis) vaccine? We have you covered.

What is the DTaP vaccine?

Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis are potentially severe diseases that are preventable in children and adults through vaccination. The DTaP vaccine contains inactivated forms of the toxin produced by the three bacteria that cause the diseases. The inactive substances can no longer cause disease but do trigger the body to create antibodies that help with developing immunity against the toxins.*

What diseases are associated with the DTaP vaccine?

Diphtheria causes a thick membrane-like covering in the back of the throat. It can lead to difficult breathing, heart failure and paralysis. Severe complications are even fatal in some cases. Diphtheria is highly contagious and spreads via coughing and sneezing.*

Tetanus is a serious disease that causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. Severe muscle contractions can lead to “locking” the jaw so a person can become incapable of opening their mouth or swallowing. Tetanus can cause death. Infection is fatal in about 1 out of 10 cases.*

Pertussis (commonly known as whooping cough) is an extremely contagious infection of the respiratory tract. Although the symptoms resemble an ordinary cold in the beginning, whooping cough can become more serious, particularly with infants. It can lead to severe complications, including brain damage, pneumonia, seizures and, in some cases, death.*

Getting help

MinuteClinic providers are trained and qualified to administer the DTaP vaccine. This vaccine protects children under the age of 7 against three bacterial illnesses: diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. A MinuteClinic provider will review the child's medical history, conduct an exam and administer the immunization.

  1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

  2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

    If you made your appointment online:
    Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

 

    If you made your appointment in the clinic:
    Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

  3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
  4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
  5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Frequently asked questions

For children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends five doses of the DTaP vaccine according to the following schedule:*

  • One dose at 2 months old
  • One dose at 4 months old
  • One dose at 6 months old
  • One dose at 15 to 18 months old
  • One dose at 4 to 6 years old

MinuteClinic providers are trained and qualified to administer the DTaP vaccine. This vaccine protects children under the age of 7 against three bacterial illnesses: diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. A MinuteClinic provider will review the child's medical history, conduct an exam and administer the immunization.

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IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ: This material is for reference only and should not be used to determine treatment for specific medical conditions. Please visit a health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of any symptoms you may be experiencing. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, please dial 911 or visit your local emergency department.

 

REFERENCES USED AS SOURCES FOR THIS PAGE:

  • *FOR IMMUNITY AGAINST THE TOXINS SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Explaining how vaccines work. Updated August 10, 2024.

  • *FOR DIPHTHERIA SOURCE: Mayo Clinic. Diphtheria. Updated April 30, 2025.

  • *FOR TETANUS SOURCE: Mayo Clinic. Tetanus. Updated December 21, 2023.

  • *FOR PERTUSSIS SOURCE: Mayo Clinic. Whooping cough. Updated March 14, 2025.

  • *FOR VACCINE SCHEDULE SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Diphtheria vaccine recommendations. Updated May 12, 2025.