Tenivac Shortage Update: What Patients Need to Know in 2026

The Tenivac shortage that made headlines in early 2024 continues to affect patients seeking the Td (tetanus and diphtheria) vaccine. If you need Tenivac and are having trouble finding it, here is the complete patient-focused update for 2026.

Quick Summary: The State of the Tenivac Shortage in 2026

Tenivac (Sanofi Pasteur) is the only Td vaccine left in the US market after TdVax was discontinued.

Supply has improved from the acute shortage of mid-2024, but regional gaps still occur.

The CDC still recommends using Tdap (Adacel or Boostrix) as a substitute when Tenivac is unavailable and there is no contraindication.

Patients with specific contraindications to pertussis vaccine must continue to seek Tenivac specifically.

How the Shortage Started: A Timeline

Early 2024: MassBiologics announces it will discontinue production of TdVax, its Td vaccine distributed by Grifols USA.

February/March 2024: CDC issues shortage guidance, imposes ordering limits, and recommends Tdap substitution.

June 2024: Grifols USA indicates TdVax supplies are expected to run out. Tenivac becomes sole US Td vaccine.

2025-2026: Sanofi increases production to fill the gap. Availability varies by region and pharmacy type.

Why Did MassBiologics Stop Making TdVax?

According to MassBiologics, the decision was primarily a business one. Use of Td-only vaccines had been declining for years as more providers switched to Tdap vaccines. MassBiologics spokesperson Sarah Wiley confirmed that "similar vaccines have led to a reduction in demand" for TdVax. The company also faced prior FDA scrutiny over some manufacturing lots, though the shutdown was reportedly separate from that issue.

What Does This Mean for Patients Who Need Tenivac?

For most patients, the practical impact is manageable — your provider can switch you to Adacel or Boostrix (Tdap) with no loss of tetanus or diphtheria protection. However, for the small number of patients who genuinely cannot receive pertussis-containing vaccines, Tenivac is the only appropriate option.

If you are in that group, your strategy should include:

Getting documentation from your provider about your pertussis vaccine contraindication — this may help you get priority access.

Expanding your search to hospital pharmacies, travel clinics, and county health departments.

Using medfinder to call pharmacies near you and find which ones currently have Tenivac in stock.

Is It Safe to Delay My Tetanus Booster?

The standard recommendation is a tetanus booster every 10 years. The 10-year interval is a guideline based on when antibody levels typically decline, not a precise cliff — most healthy adults retain some protection beyond 10 years. However, for wound management (especially dirty or deep wounds), timely vaccination is more urgent and delays are not recommended.

If your regular 10-year booster is coming due but is not urgent, discuss the timing with your provider. If you have a wound concern, do not delay — seek care immediately and tell the provider about your vaccination history.

What Are My Immediate Options?

Use medfinder to find pharmacies near you with Tenivac in stock.

Ask your doctor if Adacel or Boostrix (Tdap) is appropriate for your situation.

If you have a wound, go to urgent care immediately — they often stock Tenivac for exactly this situation.

Call your county or city health department — they may have Tenivac available through public health vaccination programs.

Learn more about Tenivac alternatives: Alternatives to Tenivac If You Can't Fill Your Prescription