Tetanus is caused by a germ that enters the body through a cut or wound. Diphtheria spreads when germs pass from an infected person to the nose or throat of others. Tetanus causes serious, painful spasms of all muscles. Tetanus can lead to locking of the jaw, which prevents the patient from opening his or her mouth and, eventually, leads to death. Diphtheria causes a thick coating in the nose, throat or airway.
Diphtheria can lead to breathing problems, heart failure, paralysis and death.
Td is made for people 7 years of age and older. Adults need a diphtheria-tetanus booster every 10 years. Adults and children 2 to 64 years of age with chronic illnesses. Adults and children 2 to 64 years of age with sickle-cell anemia, those with spleen problems or without spleens, and those who are to have their spleens removed. The pneumococcal vaccine usually is given only once to each person.