Mar 25, 2026

Do you need a Tetanus Booster?

What is Tetanus?

Tetanus is a serious disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium.  Tetanus bacilli live in the soil and can be found on any object that has come in contact with the contaminated soil.  

When tetanus bacterium enters the body via broken skin - such as a puncture wound, cut or burn - it can cause a serious disease with no cure and possible long term effects.  Tetanus causes painful muscle contractions, particularly of your jaw and neck muscles.  Severe complications of tetanus can be life-threatening. 

Tetanus cases are rare in countries with widespread vaccination usage, such as the United States.  However, the disease remains a threat to those who are not up to date with their vaccinations, and developing countries. 

Tetanus treatment:

There's no cure for tetanus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications until the effects of the tetanus toxin resolve.  Without a cure for tetanus, prevention efforts through vaccination remains vital in reducing your risk of disease.

Tetanus prevention:

Tetanus is best prevented by staying up to date with vaccinations.  Talk to your provider about your vaccination record and see if you need an tetanus booster.  Recommended Tetanus schedules are as follows:

• Children: Receive 5 doses of DTaP between 2 months and 6 years old.
• Preteens/Teens: A Tdap booster is recommended at age 11 or 12.
• Adults: A Td or Tdap booster is required every 10 years.
• Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals should receive a Tdap shot during each pregnancy to protect the newborn.

Proper wound care is critical in preventing tetanus.  Immediately clean any puncture, burn, or dirty wound to remove dirt and debris, as bacteria thrive in these environments.  Seek medical attention immediately for deep, dirty, or puncture wounds (e.g., from rusty nails, soil, or feces).  If a wound is dirty and your last booster was more than 5 years ago, you may need an immediate booster shot.  When in doubt, call your health care provider for personalized care guidance. 

Wearing gloves while working in environments where you may come into contact with tetanus bacterium, such as gardening and home remodeling,  can also help reduce your disease risk.  Proper handwashing after coming into contact with soil or objects that came into contact with soil is also a good practice. 

Get a Tetanus Booster

Not sure when you last received a tetanus vaccine?  Vaccines that help protect against tetanus work well but protection decreases over time. People need a booster dose every 10 years to maintain protection.

Contact your IHG care team via your patient portal.  We can review your records and schedule a vaccination appointment if needed.