The American College Health Association recommends that college students consider taking the vaccination. Studies have indicated that freshman college students, particularly those who live in residence halls, constitute a group at a modestly increased risk for meningococcal disease. Protection from the vaccine begins 7 to 10 days after immunization and lasts approximately 3 to 5 years. Tetanus is caused by a germ that enters the body through a cut or wound. Tetanus causes serious, painful spasms of all muscles.
Diphtheria spreads when germs pass from an infected person to the nose or throat of others.
Diphtheria causes a thick coating in the nose, throat or airway that can lead to breathing problems, heart failure, paralysis and death. After a person gets their first 3 doses of tetanus and diphtheria vaccine during their lifetime, a Td dose is needed every 10 years.