Which vaccine is given to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis?

The Tdap vaccine is specifically designed to provide protection against three serious bacterial diseases: tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which can lead to severe muscle stiffness and spasms. Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae and can result in severe respiratory issues and the formation of a thick coating in the throat. Pertussis is caused by Bordetella pertussis, leading to uncontrollable, violent coughing that can make it difficult to breathe.

The Tdap vaccine combines these three antigens into one immunization, simplifying the vaccination process and improving compliance with recommended immunization schedules, especially in adolescents and adults.

The other vaccines listed serve distinct purposes. The meningococcal vaccine protects against Neisseria meningitidis, which causes meningitis. The influenza vaccine protects against the strains of the flu virus. The hepatitis B vaccine protects against the hepatitis B virus, which can lead to chronic liver disease. None of these vaccines offer protection against the specific diseases covered by Tdap.