The tetanus vaccine is included in the recommended childhood and adult vaccination schedule. It defends against tetanus, often referred to as lockjaw, a bacterial infection. The tetanus vaccination is created by inactivating the tetanus toxin with a chemical. The inactivated toxin is known as a "toxoid." The tetanus toxoid stimulates an immunological reaction to the toxin after injection, but it does not cause disease (tetanus), like the toxin does.
Five doses are advised during childhood (at the age of 2, 4, 6, 18 months and 2 years) with a sixth dose administered around adolescence.
You must receive a booster shot every ten years throughout your life.
If it has been over 5 years since you last got your booster, you may require an immediate booster injection if you have a wound that is dirty or difficult to clean.
Inject into lateral mid-thigh or deltoid subcutaneously or intramuscularly. The vaccination should not be administered into the gluteal region or any other place where a significant nerve trunk may be present.
The skin over the injection site should be cleaned with an appropriate germicide preceding injection. Aspirate after the needle has been inserted to check that it has not penetrated a blood vessel.
Expert Advice
Vaccine should be given by injection into the muscle.
Avoid taking vaccines if you have high fever.
Vaccine should be given by a healthcare professional.
You should not take a vaccine if you're currently infected or ill.
Primary Uses
Indications
Tetanus vaccine is advised for all infants and children, as well as preteens and teenagers and adults.
If your skin has been injured and your tetanus vaccines are out of date, you may require a tetanus shot.
Side Effects
It may cause mild fever, joint pain, nausea (an urge to vomit), tiredness, itching, pain etc are some of its side effects. Rarely it may cause dizziness, vision disturbances etc.
Warnings
Pregnancy
This vaccine should only be given during pregnancy if it is absolutely necessary. Females who are pregnant should consult a doctor about the dangers and benefits of this vaccine.
Lactation
It's unclear whether tetanus vaccine travels through breast milk. Lactating females should consult their doctors before taking this vaccine.
Driving
Tetanus vaccine may cause pain at injection site, fever, headache after receiving the injection. If you have any of these symptoms, it is best to avoid driving.
Liver
Patients with liver diseases should consult their doctors before getting tetanus vaccine.
Kidney
Patients with kidney diseases should consult their doctors before getting tetanus vaccine.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about whether or not you should take your alcohol with tetanus vaccine.
Precautions
Before getting this vaccine, inform your doctor or nurse about the medical history of your child or yourself, especially if you or your child has had a serious allergic response to a vaccine (e.g., paralysis, encephalopathy), bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia, low platelets), Guillain-Barre syndrome, high fever following any previous vaccination, other reaction (e.g., swelling, itchiness at site of injection) , infection, convulsions, other nervous system problems (e.g., paralysis, numbing sensation, excessive drowsiness, disorientation), and other immune system disorders (e.g., autoimmune disorders, radiation treatment) after any previous vaccination.
Contraindications
Patients who are allergic to tetanus vaccine (a biological preparation to provide immunity against a specific disease), and those who have a body temperature more than 101 degrees fahrenheit or Guillain-Barre Syndrome (a disorder in which the body's immune system attacks your nerves).
FAQS
What does a tetanus shot prevent?
It prevents bacterial infection tetanus.
How do I know if I need a tetanus shot after a cut?
It depends when you received the last shot of tetanus vaccine and also on the object from which you got injured, was it clean or dirty.
How soon after a punctured wound should I get a tetanus shot?
A booster shot should be given within 48 hours of injury.
Where is tetanus injection given?
In infants and young children it is given on thigh muscle. In adults it is given in the muscle of the upper arm.
Disclaimer
Dawaai's intention is to make sure that it's consumers get information that is accurate, reviewed by an expert and error-free. However, the information mentioned here should not be used as a replacement for the advice of a qualified physician. The information given here is for informational purposes only, which may not cover all possible precautions, side effects, contraindications or drug interactions. Consult your doctor and discuss your queries related to any medicine or disease.
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