Inappropriate Maternal Tetanus Toxoid Immunization: a potential predisposing Factor for Neonatal Tetanus Infection

Abstract

Summary: The possible reasons for the observed occurrence of neonatal tetanus despite maternal antenatal care and tetanus toxoid (TT) immunization during pregnancy were examined by evaluating the immunization implementa tion strategies the and health workers' knowledge of the issues involved. Results indicated that 27.8 percent of 162 mothers with valid TT immunization, were inap propriately immunized and therefore, probably did not possess adequate levels of antibodies which could be transferred through the placenta. The implication of this is that babies of such mothers would not be protected against neonatal teta nus. It is recommended that health services should be made as convenient as possible for clients, with adequate and regular supply of vaccines.