Tetanus Vaccines
Tetanus Vaccinations and Booster Shots
As children, our parents make important decisions for us regarding health care and preventative measures such as vaccinations and booster shots. As adults, these decisions are our responsibility. The booster shot for the tetanus vaccine is especially important as it becomes less effective over time and should be received every 10 years.
Tetanus vaccines help protect you when coming in contact with tetanus bacteria. Tetanus bacteria can affect your nervous system and ultimately lead to death.
There are two types of tetanus vaccines: Td and Tdap.
The Td vaccination is administered to adults and protects against tetanus and diphtheria; the Tdap vaccination includes protection against the whooping cough in addition to tetanus and diptheria.
How does a tetanus infection begin?
Though tetanus bacteria is most commonly found in manure, dust and soil, most adults will become infected from a deep cut involving a rusty nail or other sharp metal. Tetanus bacteria can also enter our bodies through an animal scratch, splinter, bug bite, severe burn and more. Tetanus infections are known to cause symptoms within eight days of initial contact.
Symptoms of tetanus Infection include:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Sweating accompanied by a high fever
- Headache and/or migraine
- Trouble swallowing
- Muscle spasms
- Tightness in the neck, jaw, limbs or abdomen
- High blood pressure or heart palpitations
If you are concerned you have been exposed to tetanus bacteria, or if you want to take preventative measures with a booster shot, Midwest Express Clinic urgent care is here to help. As a convenient, walk-in clinic, we at Midwest Express Clinic offer fast, quality care by medical professionals, as well as simple virtual check-in to minimize wait time.
