Diphtheria Vaccination

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.