Most people have likely received a tetanus vaccine during childhood but often forget that obtaining a booster every 10 years is recommended. Since tetanus can potentially be deadly, it’s important that you stay up to date with this vaccine.
Keep reading to learn more about tetanus, including when you need a vaccine and general tips to stay healthy.
What is Tetanus, and How Does it Affect the Body?
Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is an infection that occurs when Clostridium tetani bacteria enter the body through broken skin such as cuts, wounds or punctures. Unfortunately, tetanus is a common bacterium in soil, dust and animal feces. You could come in contact with it by doing something as simple as gardening or getting a cut that comes in contact with dirt or soil. Once it enters your body, the bacteria release toxins that attack the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms, typically beginning in the jaw or neck. Tetanus can enter the body through:
- Animal bites or scratches: Bacteria from soil or animals can enter the body through scratches or bites, especially if you don’t disinfect the wound immediately.
- Burns or surgical wounds: This may provide an entry point for bacteria if not properly cleaned or if exposed to a contaminated environment.
- Cuts from contaminated objects:Bacteria can enter the body if an open wound comes in contact with a rusty or dirty object.
- Deep puncture wounds: Tetanus can enter the body through a puncture wound from nails, splinters or needles that push the bacteria deep into the tissue.
If you’re unsure whether you’ve been exposed to tetanus bacteria, visiting your doctor is a good first step.
When Should You Get a Tetanus Shot?
The good news is that not all cuts require you to get a tetanus shot. Certain types of injuries carry a higher risk of tetanus infection, including:
- Animal bites or injuries involving soil
- Cuts from rusty or contaminated objects
- Deep or puncture wounds
It’s a good idea to seek a tetanus shot if you experience any of these injuries, especially if it’s been over five years since your last booster. It’s ideal to administer the vaccine within 48 hours of sustaining the injury. Receiving the shot sooner reduces your chance of getting infected.
It's best to receive your booster every 10 years to maintain immunity. Keeping up with the latest tetanus vaccine ensures your immune system can respond properly to exposure and help keep you safe. Your doctor might recommend another booster if you sustain a high-risk injury five years after your last vaccine.
Symptoms of Tetanus
It's important to note that symptoms can appear anywhere between three days to three weeks after your injury, typically showing up after 10 days. However, the onset of symptoms depends on the wound's severity, location and the person’s immune system. Symptoms of tetanus include:
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Fractured or broken bones
- High blood pressure
- Meningitis
- Muscle contractions
- Muscle stiffness
- Nerve or brain damage
- Seizures
- Severe muscle spasms originating in the jaw or neck
- Stiffness in other areas of the body
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect you encountered the tetanus bacteria, visit an urgent care clinic near you.
