Reasons to get a tetanus shot

Tetanus bacteria can be found in soil and other environments. When they enter a wound, they can produce a toxin that affects nerves and causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms, often beginning around the jaw and neck. Tetanus does not spread between people. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise the toxin. Protection depends on your previous vaccination history and the type of wound, so a clinician may recommend a booster or additional treatment after an injury.

Wash the wound with clean running water, remove visible dirt gently, and cover it with a clean dressing. Do not seal a deep or heavily contaminated wound yourself. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if the injury is a puncture, bite, burn, crush injury, or contains soil, saliva, or a foreign object. Tell them when the injury occurred and whether you know your vaccination history. Keep routine vaccinations up to date through your local service.

Get urgent medical help for trouble opening the mouth, swallowing, breathing, or controlling muscle spasms. Seek prompt wound care for uncontrolled bleeding, spreading redness, increasing pain, pus, fever, numbness, or a wound caused by an animal or human bite. Do not wait for symptoms of tetanus before asking about protection after a concerning injury.

Is my wound type one that needs tetanus protection? Can you check my vaccination record? Do I need a booster or other wound treatment? What signs of infection or muscle spasm should I watch for?