A 21-year-old member asked:
When adolescents and adults are scheduled for their routine tetanus and diphtheria booster, should they get vaccinated with td or tdap?
3 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in

Dr. Scott Katzanswered
Pediatrics 28 years experience
Tdap, Usually: Unless there is a specific reason not to vaccinate against pertussis (whooping cough) such as a previous allergic reaction, tdap is preferred. Currently, people 65 and older can receive a dose of tdap, with boosters of td every 10 years.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago

Dr. Donald Alvesanswered
Emergency Medicine 26 years experience
Depends: Pertussis is making a comeback and the adults are the no-longer-immune reservoir. So if no tdap in a long time, get tdap. If had one w/in 15yrs, then td ok. No harm in going w/tdap and may help protect the "herd.".
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Jay Parkanswered
Pediatrics 52 years experience
Should be Tdap: We have experience a big surge in cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in recent years. We have also realized the immunity provided by acellular pertussis vaccine wears off in 5 years. Adolescents and adults including pregnant mothers certainly need to get tdap.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Dec 30, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.