Vaccination against whooping cough, tetanus, and diphtheria: Boostrix

Boostrix is a combination vaccine designed to prevent infectious diseases such as diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough (pertussis). It is used for booster immunization in children and adults.

Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It is characterized by inflammation of the throat mucosa and the formation of a thick membrane, which can lead to breathing difficulties and even suffocation. Key symptoms include: sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, grayish-white coating in the throat.

Diphtheria is transmitted through airborne droplets. Although the disease has become rare due to vaccination, it remains dangerous, especially in regions with low immunization rates.

Tetanus is a severe bacterial infection caused by the toxin of Clostridium tetani. The bacterium enters the body through wounds or cuts, leading to muscle spasms, particularly in the jaw area (lockjaw or trismus), increased muscle tone, and seizures.

The toxin affects the nervous system and can cause life-threatening complications, including respiratory failure and death. Vaccination is the only effective way to prevent tetanus.

Whooping cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. Among unvaccinated individuals, the disease develops in 90% of cases following contact with an infected person. The main symptom is an intense, prolonged cough that can last for weeks. Severe coughing fits may lead to: breathing difficulties, cyanosis (bluish skin due to lack of oxygen), loss of appetite, temporary respiratory arrest.

Whooping cough is particularly dangerous for infants and children under five years old, as it can lead to severe pneumonia, respiratory distress, and seizures. Vaccination plays a critical role in preventing the spread of the disease.

Boostrix contains purified, detoxified components, including: diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid and pertussis toxoid.

Indications for Boostrix vaccination

• Booster immunization of children from 4 years old and adults against diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough
• Vaccination of adults who have not received a pertussis-containing vaccine in the past 10 years

Boostrix is not intended for primary immunization.

Mechanism of action

The vaccine stimulates the immune system. After administration, the toxoids trigger the production of protective antibodies. If the person later encounters diphtheria, tetanus, or pertussis pathogens, their immune system will quickly recognize and neutralize them. Regular booster vaccination helps maintain long-term immunity and reduces the risk of infection spread within communities.

Boostrix is widely available in many countries, including the USA, Turkey, Israel, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.