DTP immunization

DTP immunization Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough) immunization, a vaccine that is given in a series of five shots at 2, 4, 6, and 18 months of age and again at 4 to 6 years of age. Due to vaccination programs, diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis have become less common than they were in the past. However, there are still unvaccinated individuals who are capable of carrying and passing diphtheria and pertussis to others who are not vaccinated. Tetanus bacteria are prevalent in natural surroundings, such as contaminated soil. Children with compromised immune systems or known neurological disorders generally should not receive the DTP immunization, particularly during infancy. See also DTaP immunization.