CPSD partners to bring Tdap vaccine to students

The Tdap vaccine can prevent tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,  diphtheria and pertussis spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through cuts or wounds. Tetanus (T) causes painful stiffening of the muscles. Tetanus can lead to serious health problems, including being unable to open the mouth, having trouble swallowing and breathing, or death. Diptheria (D) can lead to difficulty breathing, heart failure, paralysis, or death.Pertussis (aP), also known as “whooping cough,” can cause uncontrollable, violent coughing which makes it hard to breathe, eat, or drink. Pertussis can be extremely serious in babies and young children, causing pneumonia, convulsions, brain damage, or death. In teens and adults, it can cause weight loss, loss of bladder control, passing out, and rib fractures from severe coughing.

Tdap is only for children 7 years and older, adolescents, and adults. Adolescents should receive a single dose of Tdap, preferably at age 11 or 12 years.

For more information contact G.A. Carmichael at 601-521-9236.