Jan 22, 2024
Everything You Need to Know About Tetanus
If you suspect you or someone else has tetanus, it's important to seek medical help immediately.
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Adults who have completed their primary tetanus vaccination series generally need a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years. After a dirty or major wound, a booster may be recommended when five or more years have passed since the last dose. Urgentology Care in Arlington and Colleyville offers walk-in tetanus boosters and wound evaluation during the same visit. Patients with incomplete or unknown vaccination histories may need additional treatment based on the wound and their medical history.
Td protects against tetanus and diphtheria and can be used for routine 10-year boosters. Tdap also protects against pertussis, commonly called whooping cough. Adults who have never received Tdap generally need at least one dose, and Tdap is recommended during every pregnancy. For routine adult boosters, either Td or Tdap may be appropriate. Your Urgentology Care provider can review your vaccine history and help determine which option is recommended.
Tetanus vaccination is important for routine protection and certain wound injuries. Our providers can review your vaccination history, the type of injury and any work or pregnancy-related requirements to determine whether a Td or Tdap vaccine is appropriate.
Walk in if it has been 10 years since your last tetanus-containing vaccine and you are due for a routine booster. A provider can review whether Td or Tdap is the better choice for you.
Come in promptly for wound evaluation if you have a dirty, deep or puncture wound and your last tetanus shot was five or more years ago, or if you do not know your vaccination history. Some wounds require additional protection beyond vaccination.
For life-threatening symptoms such as severe difficulty breathing, throat swelling, chest pain, signs of stroke, or uncontrolled bleeding, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Find answers about tetanus boosters after injuries, possible side effects, unknown vaccination history and insurance coverage at Urgentology Care in Arlington and Colleyville.
Seek medical evaluation as soon as possible after a deep, dirty or puncture wound, particularly if your tetanus booster may be out of date. Urgentology Care in Arlington and Colleyville can assess the wound, provide appropriate wound care and determine whether a Td or Tdap vaccine is needed. Some patients with incomplete or unknown vaccination histories may also need tetanus immune globulin, depending on the wound.
Most people feel a brief pinch during the injection. Mild soreness, redness or swelling in the upper arm can occur afterward and generally improves within a few days. Your Urgentology Care provider can explain what to expect and recommend appropriate ways to manage discomfort.
Tell your Urgentology Care provider if your last tetanus vaccination date is unknown. The provider will review any available immunization records, your past vaccination history and whether you have a wound. You may need a Td or Tdap vaccination or additional doses to complete the primary series. Certain wounds can require additional protection, such as tetanus immune globulin.
Many insurance plans cover recommended tetanus vaccinations, but coverage depends on your plan, provider network and reason for treatment. A wound evaluation may have separate visit or procedure charges. Contact your insurer or call Urgentology Care in Arlington or Colleyville if you would like to check your benefits and possible costs before your visit.
If you suspect you or someone else has tetanus, it's important to seek medical help immediately.
Read Patient Guide
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