FACTS ABOUT THE TETANUS VACCINE SHOT
Tetanus is a condition caused by a toxin produced by bacteria that live in the soil and dust worldwide. The primary way it can be spread to humans is through contact with an open wound. In most cases, the wound stems from a deep puncture such as stepping on a nail. The condition, also known as lockjaw, can be dangerous once the toxin enters the body as it can affect the nervous system. It can lead to severe muscle spasms that can even result in suffocation in some cases.
Fortunately, modern medicine has an established preventive treatment for tetanus in the form of tetanus vaccines. These days, gaining protection from tetanus is as easy as visiting a vaccine clinic and requesting the proper shot. Given the common presence of the bacteria that causes tetanus in the environment worldwide, vaccines provide the best defense against what can be a frightening health threat. Read more about the tetanus vaccine and educate yourself before heading to an affordable vaccine clinic in Gainesville, GA.
What Vaccines Protect Against Tetanus?
There are two vaccines that are currently used to prevent tetanus: the DTaP and the Tdap vaccines. The DTaP vaccine is primarily given to children to begin their immunity to tetanus. It’s a combination vaccine that not only protects against tetanus, but also diphtheria and whooping cough. The DTaP is administered to children in five rounds between birth and the age of 6. After that time, immunity is bolstered through boosters in the form of the Tdap vaccine. Like the DTaP, the Tdap also provides immunity against tetanus, whopping cough, and diphtheria. If you’ve ever received a deep puncture wound as a teen or adult, there’s a good chance you’ve had a Tdap or Td shot.
Are There Tetanus Vaccine Side Effects?
As is the case with many facets of modern medicine, the tetanus vaccines feature side effects that may be considered adverse by some. In the case of both tetanus vaccines currently in use, the side effects are rather mild and can include pain and redness around the injection site, fever, vomiting, mild temporary seizures, and fainting.
How Often Should I Receive the Vaccine?
After establishing immunity with the battery of five childhood shots of the DTaP vaccine, preteens usually receive their first Tdap shot at age 11 or 12. A Td booster is administered roughly every 10 years thereafter. Some people have a lapse in that schedule, so it’s important that a Td booster is administered anytime a patient suffers a deep puncture wound and is unsure of the last time he or she received a tetanus booster. Adults who have never received the Tdap vaccine may need it instead of the Td booster. If you have had a tetanus shot within the prior 10 years before a puncture injury, you may not require another shot.
Is the Tetanus Vaccine Safe?
Aside from the aforementioned side effects, the tetanus vaccine is generally considered safe, and side effects of any kind are rare. Contrary to some misconceptions, you cannot get tetanus from the tetanus vaccine. The tetanus vaccine is highly effective at preventing the onset of tetanus when the proper vaccination schedule is followed. When compared with the potentially life-threatening impact of tetanus, the mild side effects sometimes associated with the vaccine are of little consequence.
If you’re not current on your tetanus vaccine, it would be a good idea to visit a walk-in vaccine clinic to get the vaccine. To learn more facts you should know about the tetanus vaccine, contact Lanier Urgent Care at (770) 824-4610.
