Fading tetanus and diphtheria immunity: experts explain why the Td shot is important

Despite being entirely preventable through vaccination, tetanus continues to claim tens of thousands of lives globally each year, introduction of the domestically manufactured Td vaccine is expected to strengthen adult immunisation and sustain protection under the National Immunisation Programme. | Image used for representational purpose only | Photo Credit: REUTERS Tetanus and diphtheria are two preventable diseases. And still, they surface years after childhood vaccinations. As antibody levels decline over time, especially against diphtheria, could the introduction of the Td vaccine signal a crucial point in closing this long-overlooked gap in adult vaccination and protection?According to the World Health Organization (WHO), maternal and neonatal tetanus has declined significantly over the past two decades. But thousands of people still die from the disease each year, with newborns being especially at risk, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Diphtheria also continues to cause outbreaks in areas where immunity wanes or vaccine coverage is insufficient. Published - February 24, 2026 07:07 pm IST