About Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine:
- It provides protection against both tetanus and diphtheria.
- Preparation: It is prepared by combining purified diphtheria toxoid and purified tetanus toxoid.
- The antigens are adsorbed onto aluminum phosphate, which acts as an adjuvant, and thiomersal is added as a preservative.
- The Td vaccine is aimed at strengthening protection among adolescents and adults and reducing morbidity and mortality associated with these vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Td is freeze and heat sensitive.
- The vaccine has been developed and manufactured by the Central Research Institute (CRI), which functions under the Directorate General of Health Services.
Key Facts about Tetanus
- Tetanus is an acute infectious disease caused by toxigenic strains of the bacterium Clostridium tetani.
- The disease may occur at any age and case-fatality rates are high even where intensive care is available.
- Symptoms: It causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms and can lead to severe health complications.
- Inability to open the mouth (lockjaw), difficulty in swallowing and breathing, and may result in death.
About Diphtheria
- It is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, has been one of the most feared infectious diseases globally, which causes devastating epidemics.
- South East Asia is the primary driver of global diphtheria incidence, especially since 2005.
- Spread: It can spread from person to person, usually through respiratory droplets, like from coughing or sneezing.
- Symptoms: It is a potentially life-threatening infection that can cause breathing difficulties, heart failure, paralysis, and death.
