Tetanus and Diphtheria Vaccination

What are Tetanus and Diphtheria?

Tetanus and diphtheria are serious bacterial infections that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications. Both are preventable through vaccination, most commonly given together as a Td or Tdap vaccine. The best way to protect yourself from Tetanus and Diphtheria is Vaccination at Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic in Orléans, Ottawa.

What is Tetanus

Tetanus is caused by Clostridium tetani, bacteria found in soil, dust, and manure. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, puncture wounds, or breaks in the skin, producing toxins that affect the nervous system.

Symptoms may include:

• Painful muscle stiffness
• Lockjaw (difficulty opening the mouth)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle spasms
• Fever and sweating

Tetanus is not spread person-to-person, but even minor wounds can lead to infection. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent this life-threatening disease.

The Government of Canada’s Tetanus Page

What is Diphtheria

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and upper airways and can also damage the heart, kidneys, and nervous system. It spreads through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person.

Early symptoms may include:

• Sore throat
• Fever and chills
• Weakness
• Swollen neck (enlarged lymph nodes)

In severe cases, diphtheria can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis, or death. Vaccination has made diphtheria rare in Canada, but it still occurs in parts of the world.

The Government of Canada’s Diphtheria Page

Is Tetanus & Diphtheria Vaccination Required?

Tetanus and diphtheria vaccination is not required for international travel, but staying up to date is strongly recommended for all travellers.

Travel can increase your risk due to:

• Outdoor and adventure activities
• Cuts, scrapes, and puncture wounds
• Crowded environments
• Limited access to prompt medical care in some regions

Protection against diphtheria is particularly important when travelling to countries with lower vaccination coverage or reported outbreaks.

How Can I Protect Myself Against Tetanus & Diphtheria?

The most effective protection against tetanus and diphtheria is routine vaccination.

• Ensure you have a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years
• Clean and disinfect any cuts or wounds promptly
• Seek medical care for deep or contaminated wounds
• Pregnant individuals should receive Tdap during each pregnancy to protect newborns

A healthcare provider or travel clinic can review your immunization history and recommend any needed boosters before travel.

Can These Infections Result in Serious Illness?

Yes. Both tetanus and diphtheria can cause severe and potentially life-threatening complications if untreated.

Tetanus can lead to:

• Severe muscle spasms
• Difficulty breathing
• Death

Diphtheria can cause:

• Airway obstruction
• Heart problems
• Nerve damage
• Death

Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent these outcomes.

Is the Tetanus & Diphtheria Vaccine Covered by OHIP?

Yes. In Ontario, tetanus- and diphtheria-containing vaccines (Td or Tdap) are publicly funded under OHIP.

Adults are eligible for:

• A booster every 10 years
• A one-time adult Tdap dose if not previously received
• Tdap during each pregnancy, when recommended

While the vaccine itself is publicly funded when given by a physician, nurse practitioner, or public health program, some travel clinics may charge a consultation or administration fee when vaccination is provided as part of a travel health assessment.