The full form of TT is tetanus toxoid. This is the tetanus vaccine. Tetanus is a serious neurological disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. Bacteria can enter the body through cuts, wounds, bites, burns, and more. They affect the nervous system and can cause serious complications if left untreated. Seizures, locked jaw, muscle spasms, stiffness and difficulty swallowing are typical symptoms of this disorder. The vaccine was originally developed in the 1920s and was successfully used to protect American troops from tetanus during World War II.
Tetanus vaccination is recommended for all children, infants and adults. A professional healthcare provider should prescribe TT vaccination. The injection is usually given to pregnant women to avoid tetanus in newborns. In the mother, it produces antibodies that are transferred to the child. Both mother and baby are protected against tetanus. The side effects of TT vaccination are listed below.
- Fever
- Redness
- swelling
- tenderness
