This combination vaccine is also known as DTP-Hib vaccine. Diphtheria is a serious illness that can cause breathing difficulties, heart problems, nerve damage, pneumonia, and possibly death. The risk of serious complications and death is greater in very young children and in the elderly. Tetanus causes death in 30 to 40 percent of cases.
Pertussis can also cause pneumonia, long-lasting bronchitis, seizures, brain damage, and death.
In deciding to use a vaccine, the risks of receiving the vaccine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. Also tell your health care professional if your child is allergic to any other substances, such as thimerosal or other preservatives. This vaccine is not recommended for children younger than 2 months of age or older than 7 years of age. The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of DTP-Hib vaccine.