Clostridium tetani is the bacterium responsible for causing tetanus. It can get into the body by way of cuts or wounds. The bacteria primarily live in animal feces, soil and other unhygienic environments. If an infected person is not treated, the infection can be fatal.

That is why it important to prevent tetanus infection. This can be done by way of a tetanus shot that needs to be taken periodically. So, how often do you need a tetanus shot?

Although the shot is painful, it is one that is recommended by all doctors all over the world. The bacteria causing tetanus has the ability to enter the body even through a pin prick on the skin.

Usually children get the shot as a part of their immunization program when they are small. This is a must for all kids as they tend to get hurt and scraped more often than adults. Therefore, they are more at risk of contracting tetanus. Usually infants get tetanus shot along with the vaccine for diphtheria, pertussis and polio.

However, when it comes to deciding how often you need a tetanus shot, it all depends on your age.

Children are given around three doses of the shot in the sixth week, tenth week and fourteenth week after their birth. The doses are clubbed with other vaccines. A fourth dose is then given three years after all the childhood vaccinations are over. And finally, a booster dose, which is the fifth dose, is given between the ages of thirteen and eighteen.

When it comes to adults, a tetanus vaccine is nothing but the extension of the childhood vaccination program. In case, you did not receive tetanus vaccine as a child, you would require to get three doses, which are given a month apart over the course of three months. Thereafter, you will get the fourth dose ten years after receiving the last shot of the initial third dose and the fifth dose will be administered ten year after you have received the fourth dose.

More Articles :

• How Often Do You Need A Tetanus Shot ?
• Pathophysiology Of Tetanus
• Side Effects Of Tetanus Vaccination
• Signs Of Tetanus
• Tetanus Shot After A Wound
• Tetanus Shot Complications
• Treatment For Tetanus