Tetanus and diphtheria may sound remote in an age of vaccines, but the truth is that tetanus bacteria are still all around us in the soil and the environment, and the immunity from childhood gradually fades. Understanding the disease and boosting on schedule keeps you safe when an unexpected wound occurs.
Understanding tetanus and diphtheria
Tetanus is caused by a bacterium found in soil, dust and rusty metal. When it enters the body through a wound — especially a deep wound or one from a sharp object contaminated with soil — it produces a toxin that makes the muscles stiffen and spasm, starting with a stiff jaw and difficulty opening the mouth, through to whole-body muscle rigidity, which is life-threatening.
Diphtheria is a bacterial infection spread through the respiratory tract via droplets from coughing and sneezing. It causes a membrane to form in the throat that can block the airway, and the toxin can damage the heart and nervous system.
Why boost every 10 years
The primary childhood vaccine builds immunity well, but it declines steadily with age. A Td booster (tetanus–diphtheria) every 10 years keeps immunity levels high enough to protect you when a wound occurs or you are exposed to the bacteria.
Prevention and who should be vaccinated
- All adults who have completed the primary series should have a Td booster every 10 years
- People in wound-prone work, such as farmers, mechanics and gardeners, should keep their boosters up to date
- People unsure of their vaccination history should consult a doctor to plan a start or a booster
- Pregnant women are usually recommended the Tdap type to protect themselves and pass immunity to the baby
What to do when you have a wound
When you have a wound — especially a deep one, a dirty wound contaminated with soil, or a puncture from a rusty nail or sharp object — wash it immediately with clean water and soap, then assess how long ago your last booster was. If it is overdue or you are unsure, see a doctor. The doctor will consider a booster and, in some cases, may also give a tetanus antitoxin serum.
At Doctor Chat Clinic, vaccines are given by a doctor and stored in a hospital-grade temperature-controlled cold chain. We assess your wound and vaccination history to recommend the right booster or serum.
Wounds like these need a doctor's assessment
- A deep wound, or one from a rusty nail or sharp object
- A dirty wound contaminated with soil, dust, animal droppings or animal saliva
- Last booster more than 5 years ago, or an unknown/uncertain vaccination history
- Symptoms of a stiff jaw, difficulty opening the mouth, difficulty swallowing, or muscle spasms