The tetanus vaccination protects people from the tetanus infection, also known as lockjaw. Tetanus is a serious disease caused by a bacterial infection that usually invades the body through cuts and wounds. A tetanus vaccine should completely eliminate your risk of becoming infected with this disease for several years.
A person should get their first tetanus vaccine as an infant. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends infants receive their first shot at 2 months, another one at 4 months, a third at 6 months, and a final one at 18 months. After this, your child will not need another one until they are between the ages of 4 and 6. However, the effects of a tetanus shot are not permanent, and it is recommended that adults receive a tetanus booster once every 10 years.
Tetanus boosters are available at Urgentology Care in Arlington by appointment only. Call us today at (817) 799-7273 or contact us online to schedule yours!
What You Should Know About Tetanus
The bacteria that causes tetanus is known as Clostridium tetani. It usually lives in soil, manure, and dust. If you have an open wound on your foot and you walk through dirt in your bare feet, there is a risk you will be infected. Although tetanus is often linked to cuts from rusty metal, rust itself does not cause tetanus. However, because rust often is covered in dirt and dust, it is possible to encounter tetanus when cut by a rusty object.
Symptoms of tetanus usually develop a three to seven days after the infection and may include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Muscle stiffness in the jaw, neck, arms, legs, and abdomen
- Muscle spasms in the face
- Jaw cramping
- Sweating
- Fever
- High blood pressure
- Irritability
- Increased heart rate
Receiving a vaccine and regular boosters is very important as they can eliminate your risk of becoming infected with this debilitating disease!
You can request a tetanus shot at Urgentology Care in Arlington today by calling (817) 799-7273.