Tetanus Vaccines
Ensuring your health and well-being is a lifelong commitment. While our parents made crucial decisions about our healthcare when we were children, as adults, we must take charge of our health, including vaccinations and booster shots. One such critical booster shot is for tetanus, which should be administered every 10 years. Tetanus vaccines are vital because they safeguard you against tetanus bacteria, a potential threat to your nervous system that can even be fatal.
Types of Tetanus Vaccines: Td and Tdap
Tetanus vaccines come in two forms: Td and Tdap.
- Td: Protects against tetanus and diphtheria.
- Tdap: Provides protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis).
How Tetanus Infections Begin
- Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in manure, dust, and soil.
- Most adult infections result from deep cuts involving rusty nails or sharp metal objects.
- Tetanus can also enter the body through animal scratches, splinters, bug bites, severe burns, and more.
- Symptoms typically manifest within eight days of initial contact.
Symptoms of Tetanus Infection
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Sweating with a high fever
- Headaches or migraines
- Difficulty swallowing
- Muscle spasms
- Tightness in the neck, jaw, limbs, or abdomen
- High blood pressure or heart palpitations
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do adults need tetanus booster shots?
- Booster shots are essential because tetanus vaccines become less effective over time.
- Tetanus booster shots are recommended every 10 years to ensure continued protection.
What are the two types of tetanus vaccines?
There are two primary tetanus vaccines: Td and Tdap.
- Td vaccine protects against tetanus and diphtheria.
- Tdap vaccine provides protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (pertussis).
How does a tetanus infection typically start?
- Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in environments like manure, dust, and soil.
- Most adult infections occur due to deep cuts involving rusty nails or sharp metal objects.
- Tetanus can also enter the body through animal scratches, splinters, bug bites, severe burns, and more.
What are the symptoms of a tetanus infection?
- Symptoms of tetanus infection include:
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Sweating with a high fever
- Headaches or migraines
- Difficulty swallowing
- Muscle spasms
- Tightness in the neck, jaw, limbs, or abdomen
- High blood pressure or heart palpitations
How soon do tetanus infection symptoms appear after exposure?
Typically, symptoms of tetanus infection manifest within eight days of initial contact with the bacteria.
How can Midwest Express Clinic help with tetanus vaccinations and infections?
- We offer tetanus vaccinations, including booster shots.
- If you suspect exposure to tetanus bacteria or require a booster shot, visit our walk-in clinics.
- Our medical professionals provide fast, quality care, and you can use our virtual check-in to minimize wait times.
- Seeking prompt care is crucial if you believe you may have a tetanus infection.
Tetanus vaccines available at these locations:
Illinois
Aurora
Blue Island
Bolingbrook
Bourbonnais
Burbank
Calumet Park
Carol Stream
Chicago Ridge (coming soon)
Cicero
Elmhurst on Butterfield
Elmhurst on York Street (coming soon)
Lombard
Matteson
Melrose Park
Norridge
Northbrook
Richton Park
River Forest
Skokie
Tinley Park on Harlem
Tinley Park on LaGrange
Westmont (coming soon)
Wheaton (coming soon)
Willowbrook
