NEW DELHI: India will replace the long-used tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccine with a broader tetanus-diphtheria (Td) vaccine, as Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda is scheduled to launch the new vaccine at the Central Research Institute on Saturday.The move aligns India’s immunization program with global recommendations and expands protection beyond tetanus to include diphtheria – a potentially life-threatening infection that can cause difficulty breathing, heart failure and paralysis.Health officials said that widespread immunization of children with DPT vaccines has led to a sharp decline in cases of both diseases. However, immunity to diphtheria can wane over time, making enhanced protection necessary.
The World Health Organization recommended in 2006 that countries move from TT to Td, a position that was later confirmed by expert reviews.India’s National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) later advised replacing TT with Td for all age groups, including pregnant women. This shift aims to maintain the gains made in eliminating maternal and newborn tetanus while enhancing protection against diphtheria among adolescents and adults.
Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms and can be fatal if not treated. Diphtheria is spread through respiratory droplets and can lead to serious complications, especially in children and those with weakened immune systems. The Td vaccine contains purified tetanus and diphtheria toxoids and is designed to enhance protection in older age groups.The vaccine was developed and manufactured by the Central Research Institute (CRI), which operates under the Directorate General of Health Services.
The ministry said that CRI completed development studies, obtained regulatory approvals, and began commercial manufacturing after obtaining approval from the Central Pharmaceutical Laboratory.Following the launch, CRI is expected to supply 55,000 doses to the global immunization program by April 2026, with production expected to increase in subsequent years.The launch ceremony is expected to be attended by senior ministry officials, state health representatives and public health experts.
