The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains why there is a shortage of tetanus vaccine this year.
What led to the shortage in vaccine?
During 2000, one of the U.S. companies that manufactures tetanus vaccine stopped producing it. This left only one company to produce vaccine for the United States. The company, Aventis Pasteur, in Pennsylvania, increased production to meet demand. However, it takes 11 months to produce the vaccine. Therefore, the shortage is expected to last most of 2001.
How are health authorities coping with the shortage?
The recommendation is that only those who need it most should receive the vaccine.
When will the shortage be over?
The shortage should end in early 2002.
What is tetanus?
Also called lockjaw, tetanus causes painful muscle tightening throughout the body. Infected people may not be able to swallow or open their mouths. People with tetanus can die.
How do you get it?
A toxin found in soil, manure and dust causes tetanus. Puncture wounds, scratches, cuts and burns put you at risk for exposure.
Unborn and newborn children also are at risk, so immunization against tetanus is recommended for pregnant women.
Ordinarily, when are people vaccinated?
Children receive a series of shots for tetanus at age 2 months, 4 months, 6 months and 12-18 months. They receive another shot at 4-6 years. These shots also protect children against diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) and are called DTP shots. Starting when they are age 11 or 12, children need DTP booster shots every 10 years.
Adults also need DTP booster shots every 10 years.
Infants and young children should get tetanus vaccinations as usual during the shortage, but booster shots for adolescents and adults can safely be delayed until greater supplies of the vaccine are available.
What if my child or I step on a nail or get a cut that requires a tetanus shot?
Children should be protected if they’ve received routine vaccinations. Enough vaccine will be available for those with injuries that put them at risk for tetanus.
Are there other reasons people might need a tetanus vaccine despite the shortage?
People who should definitely get shots include:
• Those traveling to a country where the risk of diphtheria is high. Diphtheria and tetanus vaccine are usually given together.
• Those who have not received three doses of tetanus vaccine in the past.
• Pregnant women who haven’t been vaccinated within the past 10 years.
Talk to your doctor if you fall into any of these categories.
What if I am due for a 10-year booster this year?
Routine boosters should be delayed until after the shortage. If you are due for a booster, or think you may be, mention this to your doctor. The doctor can make sure you get a shot when greater supplies of the vaccine are available.