When Was the Last Time You Had a Tetanus Booster?

Tetanus is a severe bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and causes muscle stiffness, spasms, and lockjaw. It can even be fatal. 

The good news is that tetanus is rare and highly preventable. If you’re not current on your tetanus shots, the primary care providers at Healthstone Primary Care Partners in Weston, Davie, and Pembroke Pines, FL, can help. Here’s what they want you to know about this serious infection and getting vaccinated against it.

What causes tetanus?

Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, found in soil, dust, and animal feces. The bacteria can enter the body through a wound or cut, releasing a toxin that affects the nervous system. If you think you have been exposed to tetanus, seek medical attention immediately.

How the tetanus vaccine works

The tetanus shot is a vaccine that helps prevent tetanus by producing antibodies that fight the bacteria if it enters the body. The vaccine also protects against diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). The tetanus vaccine is highly effective, with a 97% effectiveness rate for preventing tetanus.

How often do you need a tetanus shot?

The CDC recommends that adults get a tetanus booster every ten years. If you have a deep or dirty wound and haven't had a booster in five years, you should get one. Everyone should get a tetanus shot, regardless of age, unless they have a medical reason not to. Infants and children get tetanus shots starting at two months of age.

What are the symptoms of tetanus?

The symptoms of tetanus usually appear within ten days to 3 weeks after infection. They include:

• Stiffness in the jaw muscles
• Stiffness in the neck muscles
• Difficulty swallowing
• Muscle spasms and stiffness in the abdominal muscles
• Painful muscle stiffness all over the body

As the disease progresses, other signs and symptoms may include:

• High blood pressure
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Fever
• Extreme sweating

What are the risks of tetanus?

Tetanus can be life-threatening, especially for older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Even with treatment, the mortality rate is around 10%.

Don't let tetanus catch you off guard. Make sure you're up-to-date on your tetanus booster, and get one if you have not had one in the past five years. Protecting yourself from this serious and potentially deadly infection is a simple step.

To schedule your tetanus booster and for all your primary healthcare needs, call us or request an appointment online today.