infectious diseases
Tetanus
Prevention of Tetanus
Tetanus vaccination is required for all infants, children, adolescents, and adults. ( Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine ) at ages 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15 to 18 months, and 4 to 6 years; they should get a tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis ( Unimmunized adults > 19 years are given one dose of Tdap as soon as possible followed by Td or Tdap every 10 years. Pregnant women should be given Indications during See Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine for more information, including See Tetanus-Diphtheria Vaccine for more information, including Because tetanus infection does not confer immunity, patients who have recovered from clinical tetanus should be vaccinated unless they have completed a full primary series. Patients who have a wound that poses an increased risk of tetanus should be given prophylaxis depending on wound type and vaccination history; tetanus immune globulin also may be indicated (see table). History of Adsorbed Tetanus Toxoid History of Adsorbed Tetanus Toxoid Clean, Minor Wounds Clean, Minor Wounds All Other Wounds* All Other Wounds* DTaP, Tdap, or Td† DTaP, Tdap, or Td† TIG‡ TIG‡ DTaP, Tdap, or Td† DTaP, Tdap, or Td† TIG‡ TIG‡ Unknown or<3 doses Yes No Yes Yes ≥3 doses Yes if > 10 years since last dose No Yes if≥5 years since last dose No * Such as (but not limited to) wounds contaminated with dirt, feces, soil, or saliva; puncture wounds; crush injuries; avulsions; and wounds resulting from missiles, burns, or frostbite. † DTaP is recommended for children < 7 years of age. For patients ≥ 11 years of age who have not previously received a dose of Tdap, a single dose of Tdap should be given. Patients ≥ 7 years of age who are not fully immunized against pertussis, tetanus, or diphtheria should receive one dose of Tdap for wound management and as part of the catch-up series. ‡ For adults, TIG 500 units IM once. People with HIV infection or severe immunodeficiency who have contaminated wounds (including minor wounds) should also receive TIG, regardless of their tetanus immunization history. DTaP = diphtheria and tetanus toxoids, acellular pertussis (for children); Td=tetanus and diphtheria toxoids adsorbed; Tdap = tetanus and diphtheria toxoids, acellular pertussis; TIG=tetanusimmune globulin(human). Adapted fromCenters for Disease Control and Prevention: Wound management for tetanus prevention. Accessed June 5, 2023. 