Impact of a tetanus toxoid immunization mass campaign on neonatal tetanus mortality in Aceh Province, Indonesia

Abstract

Neonatal tetanus mortality declined dramatically in Pidie district (Aceh Province) Indonesia between 1984 and 1987. Baseline and follow-up survey results demonstrated an 85% reduction in neonatal tetanus mortality during this period, from 32.1/1000 live births to 4.9/1000 live births. During 1985 a tetanus toxoid mass campaign was conducted in Pidie district which resulted in 84% of women 10-45 years of age receiving two tetanus toxoid injections. Analysis of the results of the two surveys provides very strong evidence of the impact of the tetanus toxoid mass campaign on neonatal tetanus mortality.