ANTI-TETANUS VACCINE

What is tetanus?

Tetanus is a disease characterized by severe muscule spasm which is in turned caused bacterial toxin. The bacteria enters the body through wounds, even minor ones that are contaminated by earth, dust, animal and human waste. The infection is more easily caught through penetrating wounds which are not easily disinfected, such as those caused by stepping on a nail, or animal bites.

Tetanus is fatal in 30% of cases.

Prevention

The vaccine is very efficient and prevents tetanus in over 90% of people vaccinated according to the recommended dosing schedule.

After completion of the vaccine series, booster shots are recommended every 10 years in order to maintain good protection.

Possible side-effects and procedures to follow:

1. A few hours following administration of the vaccine, the vacinnated person may experience swelling and redness with or without increased sensitivity around the injection site. Application of cold compresses reduces such symptoms.

2. Fever rarely results from administration of the vaccine. In the event of fever, it is advisable to rest, drink plenty of fluids and use an antipyretic medicine (if fever exceeds 38.5°C oral or 39,0°C+ rectal) such as acetaminophen.

3. After vaccination, the vaccinated person may present a small nodule (bump on the skin) at the injection site which will disappear after a few weeks.

4. Extremely rarely, the vaccinated person may develop a severe allergic reaction, or a neurological syndrome. Exceptionnellement, la personne peut développer

5. Should troublesome reactions occur following vaccination, consult a physician and tell us. Mention all previous reactions to vaccination at the time of subsequent booster shots.