Your Health
Tetanus More Than a Rusty Nail!
Some people think you can only get tetanus from stepping on a rusty nail. The truth is, stepping on a rusty nail is just one of the many kinds of wounds that can lead to a tetanus infection.
Any type of injury that breaks the skin can lead to a tetanus infection if:
- Tetanus enters the body through broken skin
- The person is not properly vaccinated against tetanus
Some common types of wounds that can lead to a tetanus infection include:
- Body piercing
- Lacerations/Cuts
- Surgical wounds
- Injection drug use
- Animal bites
- Splinters
- Tattoos
- Scrapes
What is Tetanus?
- Tetanus is a serious disease that is caused by bacteria found in dust, soil and manure
- Tetanus enters the body through many kinds of wounds
- The bacteria live all over the world
- Tetanus is commonly called “lockjaw” since it can cause stiffness in the jaw muscles
- Lockjaw is one of the most dangerous symptoms because it can lead to death by suffocation
How Often do I Need to be Immunized?
- Tetanus is easily prevented through routine vaccinations every 10 years
- Tetanus and diptheria vaccine (Td) protects against both diseases simultaneously
- After a primary series of three vaccines (usually given in childhood) a single dose of Td vaccine is recommended every 10 years
So, be prepared for summer scrapes, cuts and wounds. Check your immunization record!
For health information and referral
641.422.7777
In Iowa 800.468.0050