Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine

Vaccine launched: Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine at Central Research Institute (CRI), Kasauli.
Supply target: 55 lakh doses to be supplied by April 2026.
Dual protection: Provides immunity against Tetanus (T) and a reduced‑dose diphtheria toxoid (d) for adults and adolescents.
WHO recommendation: Replace Tetanus Toxoid (TT) with Td globally.
Indian advisory: NTAGI (National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization) has endorsed the switch for all age groups, including pregnant women.
Digital tracking: U‑WIN platform records vaccination events for ~5 crore beneficiaries.

Tetanus is caused by Clostridium tetani spores entering through contaminated wounds; it is non‑communicable and does not confer natural immunity after infection.
Diphtheria is caused by toxin‑producing Corynebacterium diphtheriae, transmitted via respiratory droplets; immunity from childhood DPT wanes, necessitating adult boosters.
Historically, India used TT for tetanus elimination, achieving <1 case/1,000 live births in every district by 2015.
Global neonatal tetanus deaths fell 97% (1988‑2018) due to intensified immunisation.

Atmanirbhar Bharat: Indigenous production cuts reliance on imports, ensuring vaccine security.
Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP): Formal induction of Td strengthens the world’s largest immunisation drive.
Public health impact: Reduces risk of diphtheria resurgence, especially in overcrowded settings and post‑COVID‑19 immunisation gaps.
Regulatory compliance: CRI secured requisite approvals, showcasing India’s R&D capacity.

Article 21 (Right to Health): State’s duty to provide preventive healthcare aligns with expanding UIP coverage.
National Health Policy 2017 & 2023: Emphasise self‑reliance in vaccine production and universal coverage.
National Immunisation Schedule: Inclusion of Td as a booster for adolescents, adults, and pregnant women.

How does Td differ from TT? Td offers protection against both tetanus and diphtheria, whereas TT protects only against tetanus.
Why replace TT with Td? WHO and NTAGI recommend it to sustain tetanus elimination while addressing waning diphtheria immunity.
Role of U‑WIN? Digitally tracks each vaccination event, ensuring timely boosters and monitoring coverage.
Transmission contrast: Tetanus enters via wounds; diphtheria spreads through respiratory droplets and carriers.

Potential UPSC Angles

Vaccine self‑reliance and its link to Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Integration of digital health platforms (U‑WIN) in public health governance.
Policy shift from TT to Td and its implications for maternal & child health.
Constitutional responsibility of the State in ensuring preventive health services.