Why DTP vaccine is always given together?

 DTP vaccine is a combination vaccine given to prevent Diptheria, Tetanus and Pertussis. All the 3 vaccines are identified as mandatory vaccines. So, it makes sense to give them together to reduce the no. of pricks. Sometimes. Pertussis component, if whole cell is used, may produce some allergic reactions. In those cases, acellular Pertussis or … Read more

Are painless vaccinations effective?

Painless vaccines refer to DTP vaccine with acellular Pertussis component (DTaP). DTaP fails to prevent transmission and spread of Pertussis among  people as it does not prevent Pertussis from entering and living inside the airways of vaccinated persons. So, the vaccinated persons are themselves immune but can still spread the disease to non vaccinated people … Read more

How often must the DTP vaccines be repeated?

DTP in toddlers

How often must vaccines be repeated? I’m specifically curious about the DTP booster (includes immunity to whooping coughs). Diptheria toxoid  combined with tetanus and pertussis vaccines (whooping cough disease) is called DTP  vaccine. DTP first booster is required at 16-24 months of age, followed by a second booster at  4-6 yrs of age. If DTwP … Read more

What is the difference between oral polio vaccine and inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)?

Oral Polio vaccine consists of attenuated, (not able to cause a disease) live Polio virus strains and is administered orally. Inactivated Polio vaccine consist of inactivated Polio viruses created by exposing to heat or harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde or formalin. IPV is given as an injection. Read Polio Vaccine to know more about the … Read more