Epidemiological Study of Tetanus Seropositivity Levels in Different Age Groups in Ankara Province, Turkey, 2017

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the seropositivity levels of tetanus vaccine by age group in Ankara province, identify possible factors that affect immune status, and develop public health recommendations, especially for those 50 years and older. This cross-sectional epidemiological study covered individuals aged 3 years and older who are registered in the Family Medicine Information System. We received blood samples from 992 individuals and included 968 surveys in the analysis. Protective tetanus antibody levels were 80.5% in the 3–5 years age group, 92.0% in the 6–12 years age group, 94.3% in the 13–20 years age group, 95.2% in the 21–39 years age group, 84.4% in the 40–49 years age group, and 57.3% in the 50 years and older age group. Tetanus seropositivity decreased with age. Awareness of the importance of tetanus vaccine boosters for adults should be increased by providing training, ensuring booster vaccination against tetanus at 10-year intervals, and if necessary, considering mandatory tetanus vaccination for those 50 years and older.