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Adacel Vaccine
Adacel Vaccine: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents
What is the Adacel Vaccine
Adacel is a combination vaccine that protects against three serious childhood diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). It is typically given as a series of four shots, starting at age 2 months. Adacel is a safe and effective vaccine that has been shown to reduce the risk of these diseases by more than 90%.
How the Adacel Vaccine Works
The Adacel vaccine works by introducing weakened forms of the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis bacteria into the body. This allows the immune system to develop antibodies against these bacteria, which protect the body from future infection.
Who Should Get the Adacel Vaccine?
The Adacel vaccine is recommended for all children in the United States. It is typically given as a series of four shots, starting at age 2 months. The shots are given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, and 15 to 18 months. A booster dose is also recommended at age 4 to 6 years.
Side Effects of the Adacel Vaccine
The Adacel vaccine is generally well-tolerated. The most common side effects are mild and include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site. Other side effects may include fever, crankiness, and loss of appetite. These side effects typically go away within a few days.
Risks of the Adacel Vaccine
The Adacel vaccine is a very safe vaccine. The most serious risk is a severe allergic reaction, which is very rare. Other risks include fever, seizures, and Guillain-Barre syndrome. These risks are very small, and the benefits of the vaccine far outweigh the risks.
How to Get the Adacel Vaccine
The Adacel vaccine is available from your doctor's office or local health department. It is typically covered by health insurance.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- American Academy of Pediatrics