Protection against Haemophilus influenzae Type B, Diphtheria, and Tetanus in Children from Major Cities of Pakistan: A Community-Based Study

Pentavalent vaccine has been introduced in Pakistan against tetanus, diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type B (HiB), pertussis, and hepatitis B virus. This study was designed to determine protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and HiB in children of age 18 to 24 months from community which had received all three doses of pentavalent vaccine. Overall, 97% were having immunity against HiB, 97% against tetanus, and 88% against diphtheria. Our study showed that children aged 18 to 24 months in Pakistan have high level of protection against HiB and tetanus. However, the protection for diphtheria was low in 40% of children which could be improved by adding a booster dose of diphtheria. By increasing the vaccine coverage among children, the burden of these diseases can be reduced in the future.