If going for pertussis vaccination, one should be aware of its potential side effects. Presented in this article is a list of side effects to look out for.
Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a respiratory disorder usually found in children. It is a highly contagious disease, characterized by a severe cough, which sounds like ‘whoop’. Children and adults can be immunized by the pertussis vaccination, which is easily available under the name Diphtheria-Tetanus-acellular Pertussis (DTaP) vaccine. This vaccine was first isolated in the year 1906, which decreased the number of deaths caused by whooping cough. There are potential side effects associated with this vaccine, but they are minor and temporary.
Side Effects
Whooping cough or pertussis is caused due to bacteria known as Bordetella pertussis or Bordetella parapertussis. In the early stage, the symptoms of this condition appear similar to common cold, but can later turn severe. The infection transmits from one person to the other through bodily fluids released in the air while sneezing and coughing. Once contracted, the infection lasts for 5-6 weeks. Pertussis in adults can also be as severe as found in children. Getting vaccinated is the best preventive measure.
If the child undertakes regular checkup and booster shots, there are less chances of contracting this disease. The Dtap vaccine is also very effective in the prevention of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis. This whole-cell vaccine contains inactive bacteria. However, one may experience temporary side effects on taking this vaccine.
- Irritation
- Fever
- Redness
- Swelling
- Soreness
- Itching
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Tenderness
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Body aches
- Headache
- Chills
- Dizziness
It should be noted that not all people experience all the aforementioned side effects. Sometimes, people may not even experience a single side effect.
Apart from the aforementioned ones, in extremely rare cases, symptoms like dizziness, difficulty in breathing, and seizures may also be seen, which can even lead to death. However, as aforementioned, it is found in rare cases, i.e., one in 15,000-20,000 cases. It is advised to consult the doctor if any side effects are observed. At the same time, if any other symptom, apart from those mentioned above, is observed, one should consult the doctor immediately.
The whole-cell vaccine is cheaper, and hence, is commonly used everywhere. In order to overcome side effects, a newly developed variety of vaccination is found in many advanced countries today. Not only children, but adults are also administered with this vaccine to prevent pertussis. They are available in government healthcare units and are easily accessible to people.
Although there are a large number of potential side effects, benefits of the vaccination are greater than the risk of side effects. Take care!
Disclaimer: This article is meant only to provide information. For detailed information on the same, you need to consult your doctor.
