What precautions should be followed for newborns when the mother has not been immunized against tetanus since her childhood series?
The mother should be educated about the risk of tetanus, especially regarding care of the cord stump and circumcision (if applicable). Some cultures use “belly bands” or earth-based healing compounds. It is extremely important to caution these mothers about keeping these sites clean and not introducing dirt/feces into the site. These infants, who have little or no protection from maternal antibodies, should begin their DTaP series at the earliest possible age, which is 6 weeks.
