A primigravida at 20 weeks gestation visits the antenatal clinic for the first time and has never received tetanus toxoid vaccination. As per the National Immunization Schedule under India's Universal Immunization Programme, the recommended tetanus toxoid regimen is:
- A One dose of TT now and no further doses needed
- B Two doses of TT, 4 weeks apart; the second dose should be given at least 2 weeks before delivery ✓
- C Two doses of TT, 2 weeks apart; both doses before 28 weeks
- D One dose of TT now, followed by a booster after 6 months
Correct answer: B. Two doses of TT, 4 weeks apart; the second dose should be given at least 2 weeks before delivery
Explanation
Under India's NIS, an unvaccinated pregnant woman receives two doses of tetanus toxoid 4 weeks apart, with the second dose at least 2 weeks before delivery to ensure adequate transplacental antibody transfer. A single dose does not provide adequate protection. The 2-week interval is incorrect; the standard interval is 4 weeks as per the Government of India maternal immunization guidelines.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.