Tdap vaccine recommendations expanded

Recommended uses of the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine were broadened last week by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which makes recommendations to the CDC.

Previously, the experts had recommended a single vaccination with Tdap for adults 11-64. The new recommendations call for a booster of Tdap for all people in this group, reported the Oct. 27 Los Angeles Times. The recommendations were also expanded to recommend Tdap vaccination of adults who have an unknown vaccination history or who received a tetanus or diphtheria vaccine within the past five years, because the experts concluded that the risks of adverse effects from repeat vaccination are low. The preferred time for initial Tdap vaccination is 11 or 12 years old, the committee noted.

Although the vaccine is not approved for people under age 10 or over 64, the ACIP also recommended it for certain segments of these populations. Children aged 7 to 9 who have not received the DTaP vaccine should get a Tdap booster, the experts advised. The vaccine may also be used in place of a tetanus booster for adults 65 and older, the committee said. Older adults who are likely to have close contact with infants under 12 months of age should get the Tdap vaccine to reduce the risk of infection to infants.

The committee also recommended that teenagers receive a booster dose of the meningitis vaccine at age 16, based on data showing waning immunity five years after vaccination, according to an Oct. 27 Reuters report. The conclusions of the ACIP are usually accepted by the CDC, and become official recommendations when published in the agency's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.