Antigenic competition after prior diphtheria immunisation
THE CONTEXT
Previous exposure to one antigen can affect responses to other antigens during subsequent polyvalent immunisation.
Effect of prior diphtheria toxoid
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When triple antigen is given to a person who previously received a primary dose of diphtheria toxoid, responses to the tetanus and pertussis antigens are diminished.
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This antigenic competition has practical importance in immunisation with polyvalent antigens.