New Td Vaccine Launch: Strengthening Immunization in India

India is set to launch the Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine, aiming to enhance protection against diphtheria and tetanus. The shift from the Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine to the Td vaccine aligns with WHO recommendations and expands immunization efforts. The Central Research Institute will produce and supply the vaccine.

The Union Health Minister, J P Nadda, is set to launch the much-anticipated Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine at the Central Research Institute (CRI) in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh. This move marks a significant transition from the previous Tetanus Toxoid (TT) vaccine.

The World Health Organization has long advocated this shift, highlighting the need for booster doses due to the decline of antibody levels over time. Extensive research has shown the effectiveness of childhood immunisation in decreasing cases of diphtheria and tetanus globally.

With the CRI now manufacturing the Td vaccine, the initial supply of 55 lakh doses will be rolled out by April, with subsequent increases to bolster India's Universal Immunization Programme. The Td vaccine, consisting of purified diphtheria and tetanus toxoids, offers enhanced protection and is a critical step in reducing mortality and morbidity from these diseases.