Overview
What is DTaP?
The DTaP vaccine prevents three diseases— diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
Why is the fourth dose
of DTaP so important?
Children need five doses of DTaP (diphtheria,
tetanus toxoid, and acellular pertussis) vaccine
to provide the best protection against disease.
The 4th DTaP, recommended at 12 to 18 months,
is often missed. Without proper immunization, children are
more likely to suffer severe illness and serious
complications.
Pertussis is a prevalent vaccine-preventable
disease in Florida. An estimated 13%* of
children in our state are at risk because they
have not received their 4th DTaP by age two.
What can I do to protect my baby?
Get the DTaP vaccine on time at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 12-18 months
- 4-6 years
Keep your baby’s immunizations
up-to-date.
Call your healthcare provider today. Schedule
your baby’s next immunization visit. Keep
vaccination records. Age-appropriate DTaP
vaccination is required for entry into daycare
and childcare in Florida.
* Immunization Status of Surveyed Two-Year-Old Children, 1990 - 2006, Florida Department of
Health, Bureau of Immunization.
