Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine in North Vancouver & West Vancouver

The tetanus/diphtheria vaccine is recommended for the following population:

- All children (routine schedule): Children in BC receive a series of doses in infancy and early childhood (2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months, 4-6 years, and in Grade 9)
- Children and Adults who are unimmunized or did not complete vaccination series
- Wound management* for children and adults who are not fully vaccinated, or who are fully vaccinated but received their last booster more than five (5) years ago
- All individuals should get a booster every 10 years

*Such as, but not limited to, wounds contaminated with dirt, feces, soil, and saliva; puncture wounds; tearing away of body parts or structures; and wounds resulting from missiles, crushing, burns, and frostbite

Contraindications to tetanus and diphtheria–containing vaccines (e.g., Td or Tdap) are few but important:

- History of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or to any component of the vaccine
- People who developed Guillain-Barré Syndrome within 6-8 weeks of a prior tetanus-containing vaccine

Precautions (situations where vaccination may be delayed or carefully considered) include moderate or severe acute illness, a history of severe local reactions (such as extensive limb swelling) after a prior dose, or certain unstable neurologic conditions. In general, most people can safely receive these vaccines, and decisions should be individualized based on risk and medical history.

For primary vaccination series (given in infancy and early childhood), children receive a series of 6 doses at: 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 18 months, 4-6 years, and in Grade 9 (14-15 years).

Adults not previously immunized will need 3 doses:

- Dose 1
- Dose 2 – 4 to 8 weeks after dose #1
- Dose 3 – 6 to 12 months after dose #2

All adults who have previously completed the vaccinations series only need 1 booster dose every 10 years (unless needed for wound management).

The tetanus/diphtheria vaccine is considered safe for most people and has been used for many years with strong monitoring for safety and effectiveness. Most side effects are mild and short-lived, commonly including pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, along with possible mild fever, headache, fatigue, or occasional nausea or stomach upset, typically resolving within a few days.

Some people may experience muscle or joint aches or a general feeling of being unwell. Serious reactions, such as severe allergic responses, are extremely rare.

Yes, in British Columbia, the Td (tetanus + diphtheria) vaccine is often free, but it depends on your situation.

- The Td vaccine is publicly funded and provided at no cost for eligible BC residents, including routine boosters and medically necessary situations (like after certain injuries)

However:

- It's free only if you meet public health eligibility (e.g., you're due for your 10-year booster or need it for wound care)
- You may have to pay out of pocket if it's outside those criteria (for example, certain travel-related uses or extra doses)

No, you do not need a prescription from your doctor to receive the vaccine. Simply book an appointment with us and our pharmacist or nurse will provide the vaccine.

For children under the age of 4, please call the clinic directly as we will need to book your child in with one of our registered nurses.