Diphtheria Vaccination
Pronounced (dif-THEER-ee-a)
Vaccines are available that can help prevent diphtheria, an infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria. Four kinds of vaccines used today protect against diphtheria, all of which also protect against other diseases:
- Diphtheria and tetanus (DT) vaccines
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccines
- Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccines
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines
Babies and children younger than 7 years old receive DTaP or DT, while older children and adults receive Tdap and Td.
CDC recommends diphtheria vaccination for all babies and children, preteens and teens, and adults. Talk with your or your child’s healthcare professional if you have questions about diphtheria vaccines.
CDC recommends diphtheria vaccination for:
- Babies and children
- Preteens and teens
- Adults
Related Pages
- CDC’s Diphtheria Website
- Diphtheria Information on vaccines.govexternal icon
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough Vaccine Information Statements
- DTaP (English / Other Languagesexternal icon)
- Td (English / Other Languagesexternal icon)
- Tdap (English / Other Languagesexternal icon)
- Photos of Diphtheria Bacteria and People Affected by Diphtheria
Warning: Some of these photos are graphic.
Page last reviewed: December 17, 2018
Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases