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.

DTwP Vaccine: Schedule & Side Effects

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

About this vaccine

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.

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

Used for primary doses and boosters in early childhood.

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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.Vaccine guide PentavalentA single shot protecting against five infections, including hepatitis B and Hib.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.

Other vaccines

BCG OPV IPV Hexavalent All vaccines

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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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