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DPT Vaccine Protects Children from Dangerous Diseases
The DPT vaccine is one of the most important vaccines in Malaysia’s childhood immunisation program. It serves to protect children from three dangerous diseases: Diphtheria, Pertussis (whooping cough), and Tetanus. Tetanus not only causes complications that may require intensive treatment but can also be fatal (Ogden et al., 2020). Every year, thousands of children worldwide receive the DPT vaccine to prevent them from contracting these life-threatening diseases. Gleneagles Hospitals wants to share why the DPT vaccine is the key to ensuring the health and well-being of children and the community as a whole.
A. Diphtheria
Diphtheria is a disease caused by bacteria that attack the throat and respiratory tract. The main symptoms of this disease include fever, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. Diphtheria can lead to serious complications such as liver damage, heart failure, and even death. Before the vaccine was introduced, Diphtheria was one of the leading causes of child mortality in Malaysia. With the DPT vaccine, children are protected from this disease, giving them a better chance of living a healthy life free from complications.
B. Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Pertussis, or more commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory disease. This disease causes severe and persistent coughing that can last for weeks. In infants and young children, whooping cough can lead to respiratory failure, pneumonia, and brain damage due to lack of oxygen. The DPT vaccine is a crucial step in preventing this disease from spreading, especially since Pertussis can severely impact children whose immune systems are still developing.
C. Tetanus
Tetanus is a serious disease caused by bacteria that live in the soil and enter the body through open wounds. Tetanus can cause painful muscle spasms and can lead to respiratory failure if not treated promptly. The DPT vaccine helps the body develop immunity against the bacteria that cause Tetanus, thereby reducing the risk of contracting this dangerous disease. Although Tetanus is rare in countries with strong vaccination programs, it can still cause severe complications in unvaccinated individuals.
DPT Vaccine Prevents the Spread of Infectious Diseases
In addition to providing protection for individuals, the DPT vaccine also plays a vital role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases within the community. Widespread vaccination programs help reduce the incidence of diseases among children, which in turn creates a protective barrier in society. Vaccinated children are not only protected from infections, but they are also less likely to become carriers of the disease, preventing transmission to others, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and individuals with weakened immune systems. This is known as herd immunity, which ensures that dangerous diseases do not spread within the community (WHO, 2023).
DPT Vaccine Is Safe and Proven Effective
The DPT vaccine has been used worldwide for decades and has been proven safe and effective in protecting children from dangerous diseases. Every vaccine administered at Gleneagles Hospitals undergoes rigorous clinical testing and complies with safety standards set by international health organisations. While some children may experience mild side effects such as low-grade fever or redness at the injection site, serious side effects are extremely rare. Vaccination is an essential step in ensuring that our children are protected from preventable diseases.
DPT Vaccine Protects Against Rubella
In addition to protecting against Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus, the DPT vaccine also provides protection against Rubella, also known as German measles. Rubella is a highly contagious disease that is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause birth defects in babies. Some effects of Rubella on infants include heart problems, hearing impairment, and brain defects. Therefore, the DPT vaccine is crucial not only for protecting children but also for safeguarding pregnant mothers and future generations from birth defects caused by Rubella (CDC, 2024).
DPT Vaccine Registration at Gleneagles Hospitals
To ensure that your children are protected with the DPT vaccine, Gleneagles Hospitals offers a complete and safe vaccination service. With modern facilities and experienced medical professionals, we are committed to ensuring that every vaccination is administered with the utmost care and professionalism. Parents can register for DPT vaccination sessions at our hospital and ensure their children receive the best protection against these dangerous diseases.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About DPT Vaccine
1. When should children receive their first DPT vaccine?
The DPT vaccine is typically given to infants at 2 months of age, followed by additional doses at 4, 6, and 18 months. A booster dose is given at 5 to 6 years of age. However, some children may require additional doses if they miss their vaccination schedule.
2. Are there any side effects after receiving the DPT vaccine?
Most side effects are mild, such as low fever or redness at the injection site. Serious side effects are extremely rare. If parents have concerns about any reactions, they are encouraged to consult a doctor at Gleneagles Hospitals.
3. What should be done if my child misses a DPT vaccine dose?
If a child misses one or more doses of the DPT vaccine, parents should consult a doctor immediately. The doctor will recommend a revised vaccination schedule based on the child’s age and needs.
4. Can the DPT vaccine be given alongside other vaccines?
Yes, the DPT vaccine can be administered along with other vaccines according to the vaccination schedule recommended by doctors. Combined vaccinations are an effective way to protect children from multiple diseases in a single injection session.
5. Does the DPT vaccine protect against diseases other than Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus?
Besides protecting against Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus, the DPT vaccine also provides protection against Rubella. This makes it an essential vaccine, not only for children's health but also for pregnant mothers and unborn babies.
Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Do not wait until it is too late to protect your child from dangerous diseases! If you are a parent, the DPT vaccine is a crucial preventive step to ensure your children are safeguarded against Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, and Rubella. Register today for the DPT vaccine at Gleneagles Hospitals, a trusted place for quality healthcare. Contact us now and make this preventive step a part of your efforts to ensure a healthier future for your children, free from dangerous diseases! You may also book an appointment via our website or download our My Health 360 application ( which can be obtained at Google Play Store).
Reference
CDC. (2024). Vaccine Safety for Moms-To-Be. Pregnancy and Vaccination. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines-pregnancy/moms-to-be/index.html
Ogden, S. A., Ludlow, J. T., & Alsayouri, K. (2020). Diphtheria Tetanus Pertussis (DTaP) Vaccine. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK545173/
World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Immunization against Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diphtheria
