CDC: Tdap Acceptable Alternative to Td Vaccine

By Kelly Young

Edited by André Sofair, MD, MPH, and William E. Chavey, MD, MS

The CDC now says that both the tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine and the tetanus and diphtheria toxoids (Td) vaccine are acceptable in situations where only the Td vaccine had previously been recommended. The guidance from the agency's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices is published in MMWR.

Tdap or Td can now be used for the decennial Td booster, tetanus prophylaxis for wound management, and catch-up vaccination in those who've already received at least one dose, including for pregnant women.

The group concluded that there is not enough evidence to recommend Tdap over Td vaccination. They also noted the higher price of Tdap.