[Tetanus antibody determinations in children (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pediatrics
• Vaccinology

Context:

• Tetanus antibody levels in children are crucial for assessing immunity.
• Assessing the effectiveness of tetanus immunisation schedules in pediatric populations is important for public health.
• Understanding antibody titres informs revaccination strategies, especially post-trauma.

Purpose:

• To determine tetanus antitoxin titres in children aged 1.5 to 15.5 years.
• To evaluate the impact of immunisation completeness on antibody levels.
• To establish evidence-based recommendations for tetanus booster immunisation timing after trauma.

Summary:

• 98.2% of 109 children aged 1.5–15.5 years demonstrated protective tetanus antitoxin titres.
• No significant difference in titres was observed between completely and incompletely primarily immunised children.
• High titres were noted shortly after multiple booster immunisations, suggesting robust immune memory.
• Recommendations suggest tetanus boosters are needed at least every 5 years post-trauma, irrespective of primary immunisation status.
• Passive immunisation is indicated only for non-immunised individuals with trauma or those with significant wounds and >5 years since last immunisation.

Impact:

• Provides data to support current tetanus immunisation guidelines for children.
• Informs clinical decisions regarding tetanus prophylaxis in pediatric trauma patients.
• Highlights the prolonged protective effect of tetanus immunisation, potentially reducing unnecessary booster doses.