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Warning-sign checks

Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine - what you need to know: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency help immediately for possible signs of a severe allergic reaction, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, collapse, or severe dizziness.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    These symptoms usually begin soon after vaccination but should be treated urgently whenever they occur.

The article also says

Contact your healthcare team for non-emergency advice if:

Pain or swelling is severe, continues to worsen, or is not settling

A fever is high, persistent, or concerning to you

You develop unusual weakness, numbness, or other neurological symptoms

A reaction interferes with eating, drinking, sleeping, or normal activity

You are unsure when your next vaccine is due

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine - what you need to know. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.