| It is a common practice to immediately rush to get a | | | | or tetanus immune globulin( ATG or TIG) |
| tetanus toxoid (TT) injection after any injury. Even | | | | As a rough guideline , the following can be kept in mind |
| some so called knowledgeable people insist tetanus | | | | when injury occurs. However, depending on degree |
| boosters need to be taken every 6 months. | | | | and severity of injury and contamination , clinical |
| The basic fact is this ....assuming a normal immunization | | | | judgment prevails , especially in cases where TIG |
| schedule , an additional booster dose is needed in | | | | might be required and it is best to follow your doctor's |
| adults only every 10 years. | | | | advice. |
| There are two types of vaccination depending on the | | | | At least 3 doses refers to the primary 3 doses that |
| time when its given : | | | | are given for vaccination at one month intervals. |
| 1.) Pre exposure prophylaxis ... this refers to the normal | | | | 1. At least 3 doses , last dose/booster within five years |
| schedule that's followed in children and and pregnant | | | | ... nothing needed |
| women. | | | | 2. At least 3 doses , last dose/booster within five to 10 |
| This is called pre exposure since its given before one | | | | years - clean wound ... nothing needed |
| is exposed to possible contamination or infection with | | | | 3. At least 3 doses , last dose/booster within five to 10 |
| the tetanus bacterium. | | | | years - dirty wound ... single booster dose |
| 2.) Post exposure prophylaxis ... this refers to the | | | | 4. At least 3 doses, last dose/booster more than 10 |
| schedule that is followed in case of injuries i.e. when | | | | years - booster needed |
| one is already suspected to be exposed to the | | | | 5. Incomplete or unknown immunization - complete |
| bacterium as a result of a wound. | | | | course needed ( 3 doses a month apart ) , active |
| This is variable depending on the past immunization | | | | immunization with TIG might be required in severe |
| status and wound severity – but involves any, or a | | | | cases. |
| combination , of tetanus booster , a full tetanus course , | | | | |