Diphtheria is a deadly infectious disease. Among children infected with this terrible infection, the percentage of deaths reaches 70%. It is possible and necessary to protect against it only with the help of timely vaccination. Now you know for yourself whether you need a vaccine against diphtheria.
It is based on the toxins of this disease, and not the pathogens themselves, contrary to popular belief. As a result of the introduction of these toxins in the body, immunity is actively being developed as a specific reaction of the organism. The introduction of the vaccine does not prevent the possibility of infection, but significantly reduces its probability (5% of 100%), and the disease itself is in a light form.
When are vaccinated against diphtheria?
By standards, the vaccination begins at the age of three months. Vaccination from diphtheria is not administered in its pure form, mainly it enters the body as part of a complex DTP. It is administered in three stages at regular intervals: three, four and five months. Then the revaccination is carried out after 12 months. The vaccine is valid for 10 years, so it is recommended to vaccinate against diphtheria again in children and even in adulthood up to 56 years.
How does the vaccination work?
Before vaccination, it is necessary to check the state of health of a person who will be vaccinated against diphtheria. The best preparation is to pass a general blood test in the laboratory in order not to miss the presence of a sluggish disease, which can worsen after vaccination. If this is not possible, then it is necessary a day before the vaccination and immediately on this day several times to measure the temperature and be examined by the therapist. Remember, only the therapist can take a responsible decision: whether to allow you to vaccinate against diphtheria! It is desirable to carry out vaccination on an empty stomach.
If you are interested in the question of where the vaccine is from diphtheria, we answer:
- children - intramuscularly;
- adults - subcutaneously.
It is important that the vaccine is stored and transported under special temperature conditions (from 2 to 4 degrees). Before the introduction of the drug must check the tightness of its packaging and visually the state of the solution (no sediment, foreign impurities, transparent). If any of the above conditions have been violated, the vaccine can not be used.
Possible consequences after vaccination against diphtheria
Often in children 7-9 hours after vaccination from diphtheria, the temperature rises. Do not be afraid - this is not a complication, it's just the standard reaction of the body to the vaccination against diphtheria. In this case, it is worth to drink more liquid (breast milk) and limit the consumption of sweet, fatty and roast. Slackness and drowsiness of the baby, whims and general malaise in the first 2-3 days after vaccination against diphtheria are also normal. It happens that during this period on the site of injection of the drug appears a lump after vaccination from diphtheria. This is due to the fact that not all of the vaccine is still dissolved in the body, some remained in the subcutaneous layers. If this cone does not hurt, do not pay attention to it - it will resolve. It is advisable not to wet it in the first two days.
Contraindications to vaccination against diphtheria:
- allergic reactions
- diseases ARVI and others,
- adults - the state of alcoholic intoxication.
Can I not be vaccinated?
If you for some reason have decided to refuse vaccination, you have the right to do so. No one in any kindergarten or school can get you vaccinated. In this case, you must make a written refusal of vaccination in the form of an application addressed to the head physician of the medical institution, arguing for the refusal by legal grounds.