Tetanus shots are recommended to some travelers. Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable infection that can be fatal.
Do I need a tetanus shot for my vacation?
Most people will already be vaccinated against tetanus as part of their normal scheduled vaccines. So you may not need to get a tetanus vaccine for your trip abroad. But at your travel health appointment, we may recommend getting a tetanus booster if you are visiting a region with limited medical facilities. To find out if you need to get vaccinated against this bacterial infection, make an appointment with Global Travel Clinics six to eight weeks before your departure date.
What is tetanus?
Tetanus is a disease caused by neurotoxins from a bacterial infection of Clostridium tetani. A wound gets contaminated by tetanus spores, which results in a bacterial infection. The bacteria produce a neurotoxin, which affects the nerves. It causes painful muscle contractions and spasms, which result in a stiff neck and forceful arching of the back. Lockjaw (facial muscle spasm) is a characteristic tetanus symptom, and tetanus is sometimes called lockjaw. Tetanus also affects the patient’s breathing, and their ability to swallow.
If you think you have tetanus, seek medical advice promptly. People with tetanus need hospital treatment because tetanus can be lethal without proper medical care. Do not wait until you return to the United States to get medical help for suspected tetanus. We have an article with advice on how to access healthcare while traveling.
How can I avoid tetanus?
The normal US vaccine schedule includes tetanus, so as long as you are up to date with your shots, you should be protected against tetanus.
You can improve your protection against tetanus by seeking medical advice promptly for certain kinds of wounds.
Some wounds are more prone to infection with the bacteria that causes tetanus. These include:
- bites and scratches
- bone fractures with broken skin
- burns
- eye injuries
- gardening injuries
- large, deep or dirty wounds
- wounds with a foreign body embedded in them
People who already have a bloodstream infection are more likely to contract tetanus.
Anyone who has a wound and who isn’t sure about their vaccination status should seek medical advice. In any case, get medical help for a wound that you can’t clean, or if it appears infected. An infected wound will be hot, swollen, painful and darker than the surrounding skin.
You can reduce your chances of getting a wound by avoiding certain activities that are likely to result in injury, and by using safety equipment such as work boots, eye protection and appropriate headwear.
How can I find out my tetanus vaccine status?
Your usual healthcare provider may be able to tell you if you are vaccinated against tetanus. Learn more about getting vaccinated against tetanus from the Centers for Disease Control.
What is the vaccine for tetanus?
The vaccine we offer at our travel clinic that protects against tetanus is Adacel Polio. It provides protection against polio, diphtheria and tetanus in one shot.
Should I get a tetanus booster?
People at increased risk of tetanus can get a tetanus booster every ten years. The pharmacist at your travel health appointment can tell you if a tetanus booster is recommended for you.
Can I get catch-up shots for tetanus?
If you have missed out on the normal scheduled vaccines, including tetanus, let us know – we may be able to help get you caught up at our convenient city-center travel health clinics.
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