“Do I need a tetanus shot if I slipped and fell on the road?”
I slipped on the road and cut my leg pretty bad. Should I get a tetanus shot?
8 Answers
Yes
Ms. Hanh Cline
OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist) | Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery
Redding, CA
Without breaking skin exposed to rusty objects no
Recommend a tetanus vaccine every 10 years. But, maybe get sooner like 8-9 if you get an injury as such. Make sure you clean the wound clean water and soap.
Yes you should if you arent up to date
Tetanus lives in the soil, so yes, it's a good idea to check with your primary care provider to see if you're due for a booster.
We typically give tetanus for animal/human bites and metal injuries that could contain rust. However, if you haven't had one in 5 years it wouldn't be a bad idea to update it.
Yes, you should since it's a puncture wound.
Tetnus lasts 10 years if you dont get a dirty wound. Mildly dirty should be given at 5 years and significantly dirty max efficacy is 3 years. BUT if you are ever in doubt get vaccinated. It only brings you harm if you are allergic or undervaccinated. As tetnus has no cure better safe then sorry.
