CareCardTetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis (Tdap)
How to prepare tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccination records when your program or placement assigns this requirement.
Applicability: Your program or placement may assign this requirement.
CareCard catalogue default: 10 years.
Evidence reviewed: August 30, 2026
Follow the vaccine and date rule shown in your CareCard requirement. A health care provider should review an incomplete history, pregnancy, or a wound that may require earlier vaccination.
What your assigned requirement may ask for
- Records for the primary tetanus and diphtheria series
- Evidence of one Tdap dose received in adulthood
- The most recent Td, Tdap, or Tdap-IPV booster date
Upload the complete record so the vaccine names and dates are visible.
Current guidance
The Canadian Immunization Guide recommends one Tdap dose for every adult who has not previously received a pertussis-containing vaccine in adulthood. It also recommends a Tdap dose during every pregnancy, ideally between 27 and 32 weeks. Ontario's routine schedule uses a tetanus and diphtheria booster every 10 years for previously immunized adults.
Health care workers should receive an adult Tdap dose if they have not already received one. The vaccine reduces risk but does not guarantee that infection or transmission cannot occur.
CareCard validity
CareCard's current catalogue default is 10 years. The booster date and expiry shown on your assigned requirement control.