Seroprevalence of diphtheria and tetanus antibodies among children and adolescents in high- and low-immunization coverage areas in the Lao People's Democratic Republic.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Diphtheria and tetanus remain significant public health concerns in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). Although national infant immunization coverage has improved, substantial subnational disparities persist, and no booster doses are administered beyond infancy. This study aimed to assess population-level immunity to diphtheria and tetanus among children and adolescents in high- and low-coverage areas of Lao PDR.

Methods

A cross-sectional sero-epidemiological survey was conducted from September to October 2024 in Oudomxay (high coverage) and Xaisomboun (low coverage) provinces. A total of 960 participants aged 1-19 years were selected through multistage cluster sampling. Demographic and vaccination

SUBMITTER: Yokobori Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12752958 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature