DT Shot Side Effects

The DT vaccine prevents diphtheria and tetanus. Usually, children receive a vaccine called DPT or DTaP, which also protects against whooping cough (pertussis). However, a DT booster is provided if the child has had a previous reaction to a pertussis vaccine. Side effects are nearly always minor.

Diseases

• Diphtheria is a very contagious respiratory disease that can result in severe symptoms. Tetanus is a nervous system disease commonly acquired from bacteria entering a puncture wound, and often is fatal.

Injection Site

• Children commonly experience side effects at the injection site from the DT shot. These include bruising, irritation, itching, redness, soreness, swelling and warmth.

Nodule

• Sometimes a hard lump (nodule) forms at the injection site. This typically lasts for several days but may linger for several weeks. The nodule may become an abscess, which can be drained if necessary.

Systemic Effects

• Some children experience other side effects from a DT shot. These include irritability, lethargy, mild fever, lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting.

Serious Reactions

• Serious reactions to the DT shot are very rare. They may include difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, swelling of the face or mouth, high fever and rapid heartbeat.