T-Vac Special Precautions

Adrenaline injection (1:1000) must be immediately available should an acute anaphylactic reaction occur due to any component of the vaccine. For treatment of severe anaphylaxis the initial dose of adrenaline is 0.1-0.5 mg (0.1-0.5 mL of 1:1000 injection) given s/c or i/m. Single dose should not exceed 1 mg (1 mL). For infants and children the recommended dose of adrenaline is 0.01 mg/kg (0.01 mL/kg of 1:1000 injection). Single paediatric dose should not exceed 0.5 mg (0.5 mL). The mainstay in the treatment of severe anaphylaxis is the prompt use of adrenaline, which can be lifesaving. It should be used at the first suspicion of anaphylaxis.
As with the use of all vaccines the vaccinees should remain under observation for not less than 30 minutes for possibility of occurrence of immediate or early allergic reactions. Hydrocortisone and antihistaminics should also be available in addition to supportive measures such as oxygen inhalation.
There is an increased incidence of local and systemic reactions to booster doses of tetanus toxoid when given to previously immunized persons.
Special care should be taken to ensure that the injection does not enter a blood vessel.
It is extremely important when the parent, guardian, or adult patient returns for the next dose in the series, the parent, guardian, or adult patient should be questioned concerning occurrence of any symptoms and/or signs of an adverse reaction after the previous dose.
Immune Deficiency: TT vaccine may be used in children with known or suspected HIV infection. Although the data are limited and further studies are being encouraged, there is no evidence to date of any increased rate of adverse reactions using this vaccine in symptomatic or asymptomatic HIV infected children.