A child can get it when a cut or puncture wound gets dirty. It is a special problem if the child is hurt outdoors. Tetanus causes severe muscle spasms and can cause death in about 50 percent of cases.
Diphtheria is a respiratory disease.
It affects the nose and throat and can cause breathing problems and nerve paralysis. It is a serious childhood disease. The vaccine your child received will help prevent these diseases. Immunizations are started at an early age so that your child will be protected as soon as possible. It is recommended that it be given between 14 and 16 years of age if your child has had all recommended vaccines by age 6.