PediRounds

DTwP / DTaP vaccine

Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis · IAP / NIS

When to givePrimary at 6, 10, 14 wk; Booster-1 at 15–18 mo; Booster-2 at 4–6 yr.
Dose0.5 mL. DTwP: diphtheria toxoid 20–30 Lf, tetanus toxoid 5–25 Lf, whole-cell pertussis ≥4 IU. DTaP (Tripacel): DT ≥30 IU, TT ≥40 IU, acellular PT/FHA/fimbriae/pertactin.
RouteIntramuscular
SiteAnterolateral mid-thigh (infant); deltoid (older child)
Schedule / interval6/10/14 wk; B1 15–18 mo; B2 4–6 yr. Min 4 wk between primaries.

Catch-up schedule

If series begun after 1 year: 3 doses at 0, 1, 6 months. Second childhood booster not required if last dose given beyond 4 years. Age 7–10 y unimmunised → first catch-up dose as Tdap, remaining as Td. Not to be used above 7 years.

Adverse events (AEFI)

DTwP: local pain/swelling/redness, fever, irritability, excessive/persistent crying, seizures, HHE (hypotonic-hyporesponsive episode). DTaP: same but much less intense/frequent.

Brands available in India

DTwP: Triple Antigen (SII). DTaP: Tripacel

Special considerations

Tdap must NOT replace the 4–6 yr second booster. Contraindicated with encephalopathy following a previous dose. Immunise even children recovering from pertussis. Store 2–8°C, do not freeze.

See the full IAP-ACVIP 2025 immunisation schedule →

Sources

  • IAP-ACVIP Recommended Immunization Schedule 2025 (Indian Pediatrics 2026)
  • IAP Purple Book 2025, 5th edition