It is normal for us to get minor injuries and scrapes in our daily lives. Sometimes, something like a rusty nail or plate can prick or cut us. Then one of the most frightening words that comes to our mind is "tetanus". This is a very dangerous infection. So today we are talking about a special medicine that is given to protect against this tetanus or to treat someone who has tetanus. That is the TIG vaccine. This is a little different from the tetanus vaccine (TT-Tetanus Toxoid) that we usually get. Let's see how it works.
What exactly is the TIG vaccine (Tetanus Immune Globulin)?
Simply put, Tetanus Immune Globulin, or TIG, is a solution that contains antibodies that fight tetanus. It is used to prevent tetanus, as well as to treat someone who has already contracted the disease.
The important thing to understand here is that the TT vaccine, which we usually get to prevent measles, makes our body produce antibodies against the measles. That takes some time. But the TIG vaccine gives the body ready-made antibodies that are needed immediately to fight the measles. This provides immediate, but temporary, protection.
This TIG vaccine is made using human blood plasma. That is, these antibodies are isolated from the blood of healthy people who have been vaccinated against the disease before and have developed good antibodies. It can be seen in the market under names like `(BayTet, HyperTET S/D)`.
Things you need to tell your doctor before getting this vaccine
Before you get the TIG vaccine, there are a few things your doctor should know. These are important for your safety.
- If you have bleeding disorders , such as hemophilia.
- If you have been diagnosed with low platelet levels in your blood.
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to a human immune globulin vaccine, any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant .
- If you are a nursing mother .
Based on this information, your doctor may want to take special precautions or consider an alternative when giving you this vaccine.
How is the TIG vaccine given?
This is not a medicine that can be kept at home or administered alone.
The TIG vaccine is a vaccine that is only given by a qualified medical professional in a hospital or clinic .
This is usually an injection into a muscle . That is, it is injected into a deep muscle in the arm or buttock.
If you want to give this vaccine to your young child, you should talk to your pediatrician about it. Although it is sometimes given to children, there are some things to be careful about.
What if the dose of the vaccine is increased?
Since this is given in a hospital setting, the chances of overdose are very low. However, if you suspect that something has happened, you should immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or, it is best to go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Interactions between TIG vaccine and other drugs
Yes, the TIG vaccine can interact with some things. One of the things we need to be especially aware of is live virus vaccines.
In particular, the TIG vaccine can interfere with the effectiveness of live virus vaccines such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR). The antibodies in the TIG vaccine can fight the weakened viruses in these live virus vaccines, preventing our bodies from getting the proper immunity they need.
Therefore, if you have received the TIG vaccine, you should avoid receiving a live virus vaccine such as MMR for the next 3 months . If you need to receive one, be sure to inform your doctor that you have received the TIG vaccine.
It is very important to inform your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or traditional medicines you are taking.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, the TIG vaccine can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are minor, while others require immediate medical attention.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately |
|
| Minor side effects that usually do not require medical attention (But tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome) |
|
This list does not include all possible side effects. In addition, if you notice anything unusual, consult your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- The TIG vaccine is a vaccine containing ready-made antibodies that provides immediate protection against or treatment for tetanus.
- This is an injection into a muscle that is given only by a medical professional in a hospital or clinic.
- It is imperative that you inform your doctor about any other illnesses, allergies, and whether you are pregnant/breastfeeding before getting vaccinated.
- Avoid getting live virus vaccines such as MMR for 3 months after getting the TIG vaccine. If you need to do so, inform your doctor.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as difficulty breathing or severe allergic reactions. Although minor aches and pains or fever are normal, tell your doctor if they are bothersome.
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