It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. Its use resulted in a 95% decrease in the rate of tetanus. The tetanus toxoid vaccine was developed in 1924, and came into common use for soldiers in World War II. Tetanus antiserum was developed in 1890, with its protective effects lasting a few weeks. The lowercase d and p denote lower strengths of diphtheria and pertussis vaccines. DTaP and DT are given to children less than seven years old, while Tdap and Td are given to those seven years old and older.
Ī number of vaccine combinations include the tetanus vaccine, such as DTaP and Tdap, which contain diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccines, and DT and Td, which contain diphtheria and tetanus vaccines. Severe allergic reactions occur in less than one in 100,000 people. Fever, feeling tired, and minor muscle pain occurs in less than 10% of people. Redness and pain at the site of injection occur in between 25% and 85% of people. The vaccine is very safe, including during pregnancy and in those with HIV/AIDS. Ĭonfirming that pregnant women are up to date on tetanus immunization during each pregnancy can prevent both maternal and neonatal tetanus. For people with high-risk injuries who are not fully immunized, tetanus antitoxin may also be recommended. A booster shot should be given within 48 hours of an injury to people whose immunization is out of date.
Īfter three doses, almost everyone is initially immune, but additional doses every ten years are recommended to maintain immunity. During childhood, five doses are recommended, with a sixth given during adolescence. Tetanus vaccine, also known as tetanus toxoid ( TT), is a toxoid vaccine used to prevent tetanus.