What is the difference between DTaP and DTwP?

DTaP uses a purified (acellular) pertussis component and tends to cause fewer side effects. DTwP uses a whole-cell pertussis component and may cause more fever and fussiness but is equally effective.

Why does the pertussis vaccine need so many doses?

Immunity from the pertussis component wanes over time. Multiple doses in infancy build up protection, and boosters maintain it. This is especially important because whooping cough is most dangerous in young babies.

DTaP Vaccine: Schedule & Side Effects

Protects against: Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping cough
How given: Injection, usually in the thigh in young children.
Doses: Used as primary doses and booster doses across early childhood.
Reactions: Moderate

About this vaccine

DTaP is a combination vaccine that covers three serious infections in a single shot: diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis). It uses an acellular (purified) pertussis component, which is associated with fewer reactions than the older whole-cell version. DTaP is commonly used for booster doses.

What it protects against

Disease

Diphtheria

A bacterial infection that can block breathing and damage the heart.

Disease guide Disease

Tetanus

A serious infection caused by bacteria entering through wounds.

Disease guide Disease

Whooping cough

A highly contagious cough that is especially dangerous for young babies.

Disease guide

When it's given

IndiaIndian Academy of Pediatrics · 2026

18 monthsBooster

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United StatesCDC · 2026

1-2 monthsDose 1
4 monthsDose 2
6 monthsDose 3
12-23 monthsDose 4
4-6 yearsDose 5

View full schedule

United StatesAAP · 2026

2 monthsDose 1
4 monthsDose 2
6 monthsDose 3
15-18 monthsDose 4
4-6 yearsDose 5

View full schedule

AustraliaATAGI · 2026

15-18 monthsBooster

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PhilippinesPIDSP · 2026

18 monthsBooster

View full schedule

Ages follow the schedules listed above. Your pediatrician may adjust timing for your child.

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How it's given

Injection, usually in the thigh in young children. This vaccine covers multiple infections in a single dose, reducing the number of separate injections needed at each visit.

Side effects & safety

A mild fever and some redness or swelling at the injection site are common and usually settle within a day or two.

How babies usually reactModerate

A mild fever or fussiness is fairly common for a day or two. This is a sign the immune system is responding normally.

When to call your doctor: if fever exceeds 40°C, lasts more than 2 days, or your child seems unusually unwell.

Alternatives & related vaccines

DTwPProtects against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough using whole-cell pertussis.Vaccine guide PentavalentA single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.Vaccine guide HexavalentA single shot protecting against six infections, including polio and hepatitis B.Vaccine guide

Common questions

Sources

Pertussis vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2015.

Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.

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This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.

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