Immunity against diphtheria and tetanus in Campania, Italy [Valutazione della copertura immunitaria antidifterica ed antitetanica in Campania]

The Authors carried out a survey to evaluate the immunity status against diphtheria and tetanus of different age groups in Campania Region, Italy. Sera of 648 subjects of both sexes, with an age range of 5-88 years, were analyzed through enzyme linked immunoassays (ELISAs). 3.7% and 2.5% of subjects of the sample resulted to be not protected against diphtheria and tetanus, respectively. The probability of protection was significantly lower in women. Immunity levels against tetanus decreased significantly with age, whereas immunity to diphtheria was significantly lower in the age group 20-39 years. The Authors conclude highlighting the need for booster doses in young adults and in unprotected adults.