Abstract

ABSTRACTIn recent years, all cases of tetanus reported in the United States have occurred either in unimmunized persons, partially immunized persons, or persons whose immunization history was uncertain. We present our experience with three unimmunized individuals who acquired this disease. One patient became ill after a “clean, minor wound.” Present guidelines do not encourage immediate protection with human tetanus immune globulin (TIG) for unimmunized patients with this type of injury. We believe serious consideration should be given to modification of current recommendations to include the more liberal use of TIG, especially in nonimmune persons.