What is diphtheria, pertussis acellular, tetanus, and polio vaccine?
Diphtheria, pertussis acellular, tetanus, and polio are serious diseases caused by bacteria. Diphtheria causes a thick coating in the nose, throat, and airway. It can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure, or death. Pertussis (whooping cough) causes coughing so severe that it interferes with eating, drinking, or breathing. These spells can last for weeks and can lead to pneumonia, seizures (convulsions), brain damage, and death. Tetanus (lockjaw) causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to “locking” of the jaw so the victim cannot open the mouth or swallow. Tetanus leads to death in about 1 out of 10 cases. Polio affects the central nervous system and spinal cord. It can cause muscle weakness and paralysis. Polio is a life-threatening condition because it can paralyze the muscles that help you breathe. Diphtheria, pertussis, and polio are spread from person to person. Tetanus enters the body through a cut or wound. The diphtheria,
