An individual with an uncertain vaccine history has been brought to the emergency room after receiving severe lacerations in an accident with farm machinery. In addition to administering a tetanus toxoid vaccine, he is also given a shot of tetanus immune globulin (TIG), a form of passive immunization. Why are both necessary?
A) The tetanus vaccine provides immediate protection, and the tetanus immune globulin provides long-term protection.
B) The doctor is not sure which will work faster in this patient, so decides to administer both.
C) The tetanus immune globulin is given only when there are severe injuries and a high risk of infection.
D) Tetanus immune globulin is always given along with the tetanus vaccine.
E) The tetanus immune globulin provides immediate, short-term protection, and the tetanus vaccine provides long-term protection.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tetanus immune globulin is a form of passive immunization which provides immediate, but short-term protection against the tetanus toxin. It does not confer long-term immunity. On the other hand, the tetanus vaccine provides long-term protection by stimulating the body's immune system to produce antibodies against the tetanus toxin. Therefore, administering both the tetanus vaccine and immune globulin is necessary to provide both immediate and long-term protection against tetanus.

An Individual with an Uncertain Vaccine History Has Been Brought