DT (DIPHTHERIA AND TETANUS) VACCINE: CLINICAL OVERVIEW
AND STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY FOR COMMUNITY PHARMACIES
CDC
RECOMMENDATIONS
DT BUZZ >
APPLICATION >
BEYOND THE
STANDARD
T
If a child cannot receive the pertussis component, DT
may be used instead of DTaP.
The CDC recommends a 5-dose series at:
he DT (Diphtheria and Tetanus)
vaccine protects against two serious
2 months
bacterial diseases: diphtheria and
4 months
tetanus. While combination vaccines
6 months
that include pertussis (such as DTaP
15–18 months
and Tdap) are commonly discussed,
4–6 years
DT-containing vaccines remain an
important part of immunization
programs for certain patients and can
represent a meaningful clinical
service opportunity for pharmacies
collaborating with pediatric
physicians, clinics, and community
partners.
Diphtheria is a toxin-mediated
infection caused by Corynebacterium
diphtheriae. The bacteria produce a
toxin that can damage the heart,
COMPARISON >
nerves, and other tissues. It typically
begins with a sore throat and thick
membrane formation in the throat
DT VS. DTAP AND TDAP:
KEY DIFFERENCES
that can obstruct breathing and lead
to systemic complications.
Vaccine
Protection
Typical Use
DT
Diphtheria + Tetanus
Used primarily in children
who cannot receive
pertussis vaccine
DTaP
Diphtheria + Tetanus
+ Pertussis (acellular)
Routine vaccine for
children under age 7
Tdap
Tetanus + reduced
diphtheria + pertussis
Booster for adolescents
and adults
Td
Tetanus + diphtheria
Adult booster every 10
years
Tetanus, caused by Clostridium
tetani, occurs when bacterial spores
enter the body through wounds or
punctures. The toxin produced by the
organism affects the nervous system,
leading to painful muscle spasms,
“lockjaw,” respiratory failure, and
potentially death if untreated.
The diphtheria and tetanus vaccines
are toxoid vaccines, meaning they
contain inactivated bacterial toxins
rather than live organisms.
VACCINATION STATION
DT (DIPHTHERIA AND TETANUS) VACCINE: CLINICAL OVERVIEW
AND STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY FOR COMMUNITY PHARMACIES
VAX FAX >
STORAGE & HANDLING >
S
ADMINISTRATION
I
tandard vaccine storage guidelines apply:
ntramuscular (IM), typically in the
Temperature: 2°C–8°C (36°F–46°F)
deltoid
refrigerated
Dose: Single injection
Do not freeze
Formulation: Inactivated toxoid
Use manufacturer-filled syringes the
vaccine
same day once activated
Availability: Single-dose vial or
Single-dose vials should be used
prefilled syringe
promptly after opening
SIDE EFFECTS & ADVERSE REACTIONS >
M
ost reactions are mild and self-limited.
Common side effects
Pain, redness, or swelling at injection site
Mild fever
Fatigue
Headache
OPPORTUNITY >
Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
REIMBURSEMENT
AND REVENUE POTENTIAL
FOR PHARMACIES
Rare but serious reactions
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Neurologic complications such as brachial
neuritis (rare)
Dr. Nandita Trivett, PharmD
Business Development Solutionist
Pharmacy reimbursement varies by payer and region, but typical
ranges include:
Perfect Balance Healthcare (Mill Creek, WA)
Providing independent pharmacies with bandwidth &
Component
Typical Range
guidance to implement sustainable patient care
solutions with their teams to grow billable/cash profit,
enhance patient value, and build strategic partnerships.
Vaccine acquisition cost
~$15–$35
Administration reimbursement
~$20–$40
opportunities here
Total reimbursement
~$40–$80 per
vaccination
n.trivett@pbh.life
Schedule time to explore your growth
954-719-8778
Related reading: Explore more coverage in our Clinical section and browse the latest analysis on Dispense Times.
