How long are tetanus boosters good for

There is no cure for tetanus, and no definitive proof that you will have lifelong immunity with childhood vaccinations alone. So for now, the CDC continues to recommend booster vaccines every 10 years to help your immune system protect against these infections. If you have questions about the tetanus and diphtheria vaccine, talk to your doctor.

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Can vaping help you quit smoking? These conditions can be deadly to newborns. Protection begins to decrease after about 10 years, which is why doctors advise booster shots every decade. Tetanus is rare in the United States. An average of only 30 cases are reported each year. Vaccination is essential to prevent tetanus.

Complications from tetanus vaccinations are extremely rare, and the disease itself poses far more risks than the vaccine.

If you think you or your child may be having an allergic reaction to the vaccine, seek immediate medical help. Signs of an allergic reaction may include:. The spores of the bacteria live in soil, dust, saliva, and manure. If an open cut or wound is exposed to the spores, they can enter your body. Once inside the body, the spores produce toxic bacteria that affects muscles and nerves. Tetanus is sometimes called lockjaw because of the stiffness it can cause in the neck and jaw.

The most common scenario for catching tetanus is stepping on a dirty nail or sharp shard of glass or wood that pierces through the skin. The time between exposure to tetanus and the appearance of symptoms ranges between a few days to a few months. Most people with tetanus will experience symptoms within 14 days of exposure. Tetanus can be fatal. The Immunization Action Coalition states that about 10 percent of reported cases have led to death. You can manage symptoms by using sedatives to control muscle spasms.

Most treatment consists of trying to reduce exposure to the toxins produced by the bacteria. To do that, your doctor may advise:. Tetanus is a potentially deadly disease, but it can be prevented by staying up-to-date on your vaccine schedule and getting boosters every 10 years.

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