BD & UNICEF USA's Partnership: Making the Elimination of Tetanus a Reality

Partner Since 1997

Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) originated the maternal and newborn tetanus (MNT) partnership with UNICEF in 1997, when women and children in 59 countries were still at risk of contracting this centuries-old, cruel disease. BD has continued to support this lifesaving initiative alongside a number of other important donors.

UNICEF actively works to end MNT around the globe, focusing on countries where it remains endemic, such as Pakistan and Yemen. Support from partners like BD funds immunization activities that protect mothers and their babies. 

Since the start of this initiative, 47 countries — including Chad, Ghana, India, Laos and Tanzania — have effectively eliminated MNT. Neonatal tetanus cases are down by 90 percent and neonatal deaths are down by 85 percent.

Work continues in the 12 remaining endemic countries to reach all women of reproductive age with vaccinations and eliminate MNT once and for all.

Learn more about how UNICEF is fighting MNT.

Learn more about how UNICEF and companies work together to create better futures for children.