I need a tetanus shot: what should I do?

Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria that can enter through broken skin, especially a deep, dirty, puncture, crush or burn wound. It can affect muscles and cause painful stiffness or spasms. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise the toxin made by the bacteria; it does not clean or close the wound itself.

The decision about a booster depends on the wound and your previous doses. A clinician may also consider whether the primary vaccination course was completed and whether additional protection is needed. If you cannot recall your records, say so rather than guessing.

Rinse visible dirt from a minor wound with clean running water, apply gentle pressure if it is bleeding, and cover it with a clean dressing. Do not probe deeply into a puncture wound or pour harsh chemicals into it.

Contact a clinic or urgent care service as soon as practical for a wound review and vaccination check. Take any immunisation record you have, and describe when the injury happened, what caused it, and whether soil, saliva or a foreign object was involved. A clinician can decide whether a booster, wound treatment or other medicine is appropriate.

Seek urgent medical care for uncontrolled bleeding, a deep or gaping wound, a bite, a wound containing glass or metal, loss of feeling or movement, or signs of infection such as spreading redness, increasing warmth, swelling, pus or fever. Do not wait for muscle stiffness or spasms before asking for help.

Ask: Does this wound need a tetanus booster? Is my vaccination history complete? Does the wound need closure, cleaning or monitoring? What changes should prompt a return visit?