DPT3 Vaccine

About DPT3 Vaccine: 

• The DPT vaccine is a class of combination vaccines against three infectious diseases in humans: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus.
• The vaccine components include diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and either killed whole cells of the bacterium that causes pertussis or pertussis antigens.
• The primary dose of DPT provided as part of pentavalent vaccine and 2 booster doses are given at 16 -24 months and 5-6 years, respectively.
• Diphtheria:
  • It is an infectious disease caused by Corynebacterium diphtheria, a bacterium.
  • Vulnerable groups: Diphtheria particularly affects children aged 1 to 5 years. In temperate climates diphtheria tends to occur during the colder months.
• Tetanus
  • It is an infection caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani.
  • When these bacteria enter the body, they produce a toxin that causes painful muscle contractions.
  • Tetanus bacteria are more likely to infect certain breaks in the skin
  • It does not spread from person to person.
• Pertussis
  • It is also known as whooping cough.
  • It is a very contagious respiratory illness caused by a type of bacteria called Bordetella pertussis. 
  • Whooping cough bacteria attach to the cilia (tiny, hair-like extensions) that line part of the upper respiratory system.
  • The bacteria release toxins (poisons), which damage the cilia and cause airways to swell.
  • It can spread easily from person to person through the air.

Q1) What is Immunization?

Immunization, also known as vaccination or immunization, is a process by which a person is protected against certain infectious diseases. It involves administering vaccines, which are substances that stimulate the immune system to produce an immune response without causing the actual disease.

Source: India recorded all-time high of 93% DPT3 immunisation coverage in 2022: WHO

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