Children who receive DTap may have possible reactions such as feeling fussy, loss of appetite, a sore arm and leg, and vomiting. The reactions may be moderate or severe depending on children. Severe reactions are rare, but it can include severe allergic reactions, seizure, a decrease in consciousness, lasting brain disease, or possibly death. If your children experience severe reactions, you should contact healthcare provider immediately. 

            Approximately 1-3% of children who receive DTaP booster will experience swelling of the area where shot was given. The swelling usually last about four days. Children who experience swelling reactions after the fourth doses should consider getting the fifth dose of DTaP vaccine. Children who have reaction problems with the vaccine can get other version of DTAP vaccine. For instance, if your child is allergic to pertussis component, your healthcare provider may give DT vaccine to your child. Most of the reactions from DTap vaccine are believed to be from pertussis component.

            DTaP is proven to have fewer side effects comparing to its older version (DTP). Both  DTap and DTP appear to be very effective to boost immune systems. Most countries in the world has switched to DTap. However, some developing countries are still using DTP, because it is a lot cheaper.