Why in News?
The Union Health Minister launched a Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) vaccine programme. The initiative aims to strengthen protection against life-threatening infectious diseases in India.
Tetanus and Adult Diphtheria (Td) vaccine is a dual-protection shot that immunizes older children and adults against tetanus and diphtheria.
About Tetanus:
Tetanus is a serious, sometimes fatal, disease caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria, which produce a toxin causing severe, painful muscle spasms and “lockjaw”
- Source: Soil, dust, animal manure.
- Transmission: Enters body through cuts, wounds, or injuries
About Diphtheria:
Diphtheria is a serious, highly contagious bacterial infection caused by toxin-producing strains of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. While it typically affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, it can also impact the skin.
Cause: Bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets.
Symptoms:
- Sore throat, fever
- Thick grey membrane (pseudomembrane) in throat
