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.

Vaccinecombination

DTaP

Protects against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough.

Reviewed by TinyDose editorial teamLast reviewed June 2026

Also known as: Triple vaccine · DTaP · Acellular pertussis vaccine

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

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.

Learn about Diphtheria →Disease

Tetanus

A serious infection caused by bacteria entering through wounds.

Learn about Tetanus →Disease

Whooping cough

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

Learn about Whooping cough →

When it's given

18 months · Booster

Indian Academy of Pediatrics

Ages follow India schedules. Your pediatrician may adjust timing for your child.

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.PentavalentA single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.HexavalentA single shot protecting against six infections, including polio and hepatitis B.

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.

Track DTaP doses and every other vaccine in your child's schedule, with reminders before each visit.

Free on iOS and Android.

App Store Google Play Learn more →

Other vaccines

BCG OPV IPV MMR All vaccines →

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.