When is TT4 given, and what age group does it protect?

The correct answer reflects that TT4 is administered 1 year after TT3 and is aimed at protecting individuals during their childbearing years. The tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccination series is structured to offer cumulative protection against tetanus, which is particularly important for women of childbearing age due to the potential for serious complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

During the childbearing years, women are at increased risk for tetanus in case of injury or if they are unvaccinated. Thus, maintaining immunity through timely vaccination, such as receiving TT4 after TT3, ensures protection not only for the mother but also helps prevent tetanus in newborns, especially if the mother is vaccinated during this critical time.

In contrast, other options do not align with the established vaccination schedule or target age group. For example, the mention of TT2 and infants doesn't apply to TT4 directly, as this option mistakenly refers to a prior stage of vaccination. Similarly, senior citizens are not the focus of TT4, as the vaccination schedule is specifically tailored towards the reproductive age group to address the unique needs of women in that demographic.