Tetanus and diphtheria are two infectious diseases that are serious and potentially fatal. Fortunately, reliable protection against both diseases is available through proper immunization.
For the third year in a row, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) and the National Coalition for Adult Immunization (NCAI) are rolling out the Power of 10 campaign, a major consumer initiative to encourage the public to stay up-to-date on the tetanus-diphtheria (Td) booster - needed every 10 years, starting around age 11 or 12.
Power of 10 focuses on activities that can pose tetanus exposure risks, and that involve the whole family. NFID and NCAI want the public to recognize that while these diseases are rare in the U.S., anyone still can be exposed to tetanus and diphtheria:
- For tetanus, the risk of infection can come from something as simple as a small cut, scrape, splinter, or wound. Tetanus bacteria are everywhere in the environment.
- For diphtheria, the risk of infection can come from inhaling the bacteria from an infected person. Diphtheria is common in 87 countries, including some parts of the U.S.
Three popular celebrities are participating in the Power of 10 campaign to reach the public with messages about the importance of maintaining protection against these preventable diseases:
- Home improvement expert Bob Vila will focus on tetanus risks from home renovation projects.
- NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne will convey tetanus risks associated with warm-weather outdoor activities.
- Travel expert and Travel Channel host Tracy Gallagher will caution families about tetanus risks associated with domestic travel.
The 10-year booster vaccine is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and all major U.S. medical groups, starting in adolescence and continuing throughout life.
- Immunization is the best prevention against tetanus and diphtheria infections in the U.S.
- More than half of adults in the U.S. aged 20 years and older are not adequately protected against these diseases, according to CDC.
- Tetanus and diphtheria vaccines are combined in a single booster since both are needed every 10 years.
NFID/NCAI is embarking upon a variety of initiatives to drive public awareness about Td boosters.
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