Why in news?
The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, J.P. Nadda, will launch the Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine at the Central Research Institute (CRI) in Kasauli on 21 February 2026. The event marks India’s transition from the Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine to the Td vaccine for adolescents and adults to enhance long‑term protection against both tetanus and diphtheria.
Background
Tetanus is a life‑threatening infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It causes painful muscle spasms, difficulty in swallowing and breathing, and can lead to death if untreated. Diphtheria, caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, produces a toxin that can block airways and damage the heart and nervous system. Routine childhood immunisation with the DPT (diphtheria–pertussis–tetanus) vaccine has drastically reduced cases worldwide, but immunity wanes over time. Recognising this, the World Health Organization in 2006 recommended that countries replace the TT vaccine with a combined Td booster for older children and adults. India’s National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation has endorsed this recommendation.
What is the Td vaccine?
- Composition: The Td vaccine contains purified diphtheria and tetanus toxoids adsorbed onto aluminium phosphate, with thiomersal as a preservative. It has a lower diphtheria antigen content than the childhood DPT vaccine, making it suitable for older children and adults.
- Manufacture: The vaccine has been developed by the Central Research Institute in Kasauli. The institute successfully completed the necessary studies, obtained regulatory approvals and is now preparing to supply around 5.5 million doses under India’s Universal Immunisation Programme.
- Purpose: Booster doses of Td extend immunity against diphtheria and tetanus. The vaccine is particularly important for adolescents, adults and pregnant women, ensuring that protective antibody levels are maintained throughout life.
Importance of booster immunisation
- Declining antibodies: While childhood vaccination protects infants and young children, antibody levels decline over years. Booster doses are needed every 10 years to sustain immunity.
- Public health impact: Replacing TT with Td will broaden protection, reduce morbidity and mortality from diphtheria and sustain India’s achievements in eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus.
- Domestic self‑reliance: Local production of Td strengthens vaccine security, reduces dependence on imports and supports India’s goal of self‑sufficiency in medical supplies.
Source: Press Information Bureau
