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Warning-sign checks

Td (tetanus, diphtheria) 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

    These concerns usually need prompt advice but are not automatically emergencies.

    Call emergency services immediately for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, widespread hives, a rapid heartbeat with severe dizziness, collapse, or loss of consciousness.

    These can be signs of a severe allergic reaction.

    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

The article also says

Contact your healthcare team for advice if:

Pain, redness, or swelling is getting worse rather than improving

A fever is high, persistent, or accompanied by significant illness

Shoulder pain or reduced movement continues

You develop unusual weakness, numbness, or tingling

You are unsure when your next dose is due

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