CDC Expects Shortage of Certain Tetanus Vaccines

March 1, 2024
Production of one tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine, TdVax, has been discontinued

Historically, two tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine products have been available for use in the United States:

  • TdVax, manufactured by MassBiologics
  • Tenivac, manufactured by Sanofi

MassBiologics has discontinued production of TdVaxTM, which is exclusively distributed by Grifols. Sanofi is taking steps to augment their available U.S. supply of Tenivac®. Despite these efforts, it’s anticipated that the supply of Td vaccine in the U.S. market will be constrained during 2024.

Temporary ordering controls are in place in the public and private sectors to help manage the gap in supply. Diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccines are available without supply constraints at this time.

The limited supply of Td vaccine needs to be preserved for those with a contraindication to receiving pertussis-containing vaccines. To assist vaccination providers, CDC has developed the following guidance:

  • Transition to use of Tdap vaccine in lieu of Td vaccine whenever possible while Td vaccine supplies are constrained.
  • Tdap vaccine is an acceptable alternative to Td vaccine, including when a tetanus booster is indicated for wound management.
  • Tdap vaccine isn’t an acceptable alternative only when a person has a specific contraindication to pertussis-containing vaccines, which is very rare.

This guidance will remain in place until the period of temporary ordering controls for Td vaccine ends.

CDC has the information.