Diphtheria Vaccination
Pronounced (dif-THEER-ee-a)
Vaccines are available that help prevent diphtheria, an infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria. Four kinds of vaccines used in the United States today help protect against diphtheria, all of which also provide protection 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 doctor if you have questions about diphtheria vaccines.
What Everyone Should Know
Information for Healthcare Professionals
CDC recommends diphtheria vaccination for:
- Young children
- Preteens
- Adults
Related Pages
- CDC’s Diphtheria Website
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough Vaccine Information Statements
- DTaP (English / Other Languages)
- Td (English / Other Languages)
- Tdap (English / Other Languages)
- Photos of Diphtheria Bacteria and People Affected by Diphtheria
Warning: Some of these photos are graphic.
Page last reviewed: September 6, 2022
Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases