Why is India replacing the TT vaccine with the Td vaccine?

India is replacing the tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine with the Tetanus and adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine to provide broader protection, including against diphtheria, and to align its immunization program with global health recommendations.

What is the significance of the Td vaccine over the TT vaccine?

The Td vaccine is significant because it offers protection against both tetanus and diphtheria, whereas the older TT vaccine only protected against tetanus. This enhances immunity against a potentially life-threatening infection.

When will the new Td vaccine be supplied under India's Universal Immunization Programme?

Following its launch, the Central Research Institute is expected to supply 55 lakh doses of the Td vaccine to the Universal Immunization Programme by April 2026.

Home / Health / India Switches Tetanus Shot to Td Vaccine

India Switches Tetanus Shot to Td Vaccine

20 Feb

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Summary

India replaces tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine with Td vaccine.
Td vaccine also provides protection against diphtheria.
New vaccine aligns India's program with global health standards.

India Switches Tetanus Shot to Td Vaccine

India is set to replace the long-standing tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine with the Tetanus and adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine. Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda will launch this new jab, marking a significant alignment with global immunisation recommendations. The Td vaccine broadens protection beyond tetanus to include diphtheria, a serious infection that can lead to breathing difficulties, heart failure, and paralysis.

While childhood immunisation has reduced cases of both diseases, diphtheria immunity can wane, necessitating booster protection for adolescents and adults. The World Health Organization recommended this transition from TT to Td in 2006, a suggestion later reinforced by India's National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization. This change aims to maintain the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus while enhancing diphtheria defence.

The Central Research Institute (CRI) has developed and manufactured the Td vaccine. Following regulatory approvals, CRI is preparing to supply 55 lakh doses to the Universal Immunization Programme by April 2026, with production expected to ramp up thereafter. The launch ceremony is anticipated to be attended by senior ministry officials and public health experts.

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