Is DTwP safe even though it causes more fever?

Yes. DTwP has been used safely for decades. The fever and fussiness are a normal immune response and not a sign of anything serious. If the fever is high or lasts more than a couple of days, speak to your pediatrician.

Vaccinecombination

DTwP

Protects against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough using whole-cell pertussis.

Reviewed by TinyDose editorial teamLast reviewed June 2026

Also known as: Whole-cell pertussis vaccine · DTwP

Protects against

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping cough

How given

Injection, usually in the thigh.

Doses

Used for primary doses and boosters in early childhood.

Reactions

More noticeable

DTwP protects against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough using a whole-cell pertussis component. It is widely used in India and is strongly effective. It tends to produce more short-lived fever and fussiness than the acellular DTaP version, but both are safe and protective.

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

How it's given

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

Side effects & safety

Fever, fussiness and swelling at the injection site are common in the day or two after the shot and settle on their own.

How babies usually reactMore noticeable

Fever, fussiness and injection-site swelling are common for 1-2 days. This is expected and settles on its own.

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

Alternatives & related vaccines

DTaPProtects against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough.PentavalentA single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.

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

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Other vaccines

BCG OPV IPV Hexavalent 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.