Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus Vaccines: What’s the Difference?

Question

What is the difference between diphtheria and tetanus vaccines?

Answer

The tetanus vaccine is a single vaccine designed to prevent infection from Clostridium tetani. On the other hand, the diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) vaccine is a combination vaccine used to prevent diphtheria, pertussis, and infection from Clostridium tetani. It is recommended that if you are pierced by an iron nail or have a severe cut that requires stitching, you should receive the tetanus vaccine to prevent infection from Clostridium tetani. Typically, the DPT vaccine is mainly administered to children.