From the Guidelines
For a person who has never been vaccinated against tetanus before, the recommended vaccination schedule is a series of three vaccinations containing tetanus and diphtheria toxoids, with the preferred schedule being a single dose of Tdap, followed by a dose of Td >4 weeks after Tdap and another dose of Td 6--12 months later. This recommendation is based on the guidelines from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The primary series consists of three doses of tetanus toxoid-containing vaccine, with Tdap being the preferred first dose.
- The second dose of Td should be given more than 4 weeks after the first dose of Tdap.
- The third dose of Td should be given 6-12 months after the second dose.
- Tdap can substitute for any one of the doses of Td in the 3-dose primary series.
- If there is uncertainty about previous vaccination, serologic testing for antibodies to tetanus and diphtheria toxin can be considered to avoid unnecessary vaccination 1.
Vaccination Schedule
- First dose: Tdap
- Second dose: Td, given >4 weeks after Tdap
- Third dose: Td, given 6-12 months after the second dose This schedule is designed to provide optimal protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, while also considering the potential for previous vaccination or immunity. By following this recommended schedule, individuals who have never been vaccinated against tetanus before can ensure they receive the necessary protection against these serious diseases.
From the Research
Tetanus Vaccination in Unvaccinated Individuals
- The diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (DTP) vaccine can prevent diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, and is recommended for individuals who have never been vaccinated before 2.
- Vaccination against tetanus is largely preventable through vaccination, and is an important measure to prevent potentially deadly bacterial infections 3.
- The Immunization Practices Advisory Committee (ACIP) has issued guidelines for vaccine prophylaxis and other preventive measures for diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, including recommendations for immunization schedules and precautions and contraindications to vaccine use 4.
Vaccine Administration and Safety
- The Tdap vaccine, which protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, can be administered during pregnancy, and has been shown to be safe and not associated with increased odds of clinical chorioamnionitis at delivery 5.
- There is no evidence to suggest that tetanus vaccination is associated with malignant diseases, such as multiple myeloma or hepatoma, which have been studied in relation to beta2-microglobulin levels 6.
Key Considerations
- Individuals who have never been vaccinated before should receive the DTP vaccine to prevent diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis 2, 3.
- Vaccination against tetanus is an important measure to prevent potentially deadly bacterial infections, and should be administered according to recommended immunization schedules and precautions 4.