Progress Toward Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination - Worldwide, 2000-2018

What is already known about this topic? In 1999, the maternal and neonatal tetanus (MNT) elimination initiative was relaunched to focus on 59 priority countries that were still at risk for neonatal tetanus (NT). What is added by this report? During 2000-2018, 45 countries achieved MNT elimination, reported NT cases decreased 90%, and estimated deaths declined 85%. Despite this progress, some countries that achieved elimination are still struggling to sustain performance indicators; war and insecurity pose challenges in countries that have not achieved MNT elimination. What are the implications for public health practice? To maintain MNT elimination and to achieve it in remaining priority countries, sustained efforts are needed to enhance routine vaccination, embrace life-course vaccination, and develop innovative strategies for reaching underserved populations. © 2020 Department of Health and Human Services. All rights reserved.