The status of tetanus vaccination in the Francisco Xavier de Noronha Unit of the Almada Health Centre

Abstract

Tetanus is an infectious disease that occurs world-wide. Its mortality in Portugal is still significant. Tetanus is more common in adults, in females, and its risk increases in those over 30 years of age. Immunisation is one of the main control measures. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the tetanus immunisation status at the Almada Health Centre Francisco Xavier Noronha Unit. An anonymous and confidential questionnaire including both closed and open-ended questions was applied to 509 patients who attended the health unit in one given day. The proportion of patients with an updated tetanus immunisation status decreased significantly after 30 years of age, in both sexes, but more so in females. Legal imposition was the reason most often mentioned to explain an updated immunisation status in the younger age groups, whereas in adults and in those over 60 years, the main reason had to do with accidents. Analysis of answers to open-ended questions showed there was no clear information on tetanus immunisation and its disease prevention advantages. Feelings of fear or lack of need for immunisation on account of advanced age deserve reflection. This study pointed to the need to develop actions toward better informing our population about tetanus and its prevention. This has led to the setting-up of an action campaign at the Almada Health Centre to promote tetanus immunisation.