‘Tis the season for celebrations and being thankful for good health! As you check off all there is to be thankful for, make sure your vaccines are included, especially the tetanus shot. If not, it’s time to schedule your tetanus vaccine with Allwell Pharmacy to ensure your good health goes beyond the holidays. The gift that keeps on giving, tetanus shots are received in a series to protect you for at least 10 years.
If your child has yet to have their vaccines or you were never vaccinated, it’s important to understand just how important it is to your safety and when is the best time to get it. Saving you the time it takes to research, Allwell Pharmacy has comprised a guide to understanding the tetanus vaccine for you below.
Tetanus Vaccine Schedule For Children and Adults
The tetanus vaccine comes in a sequence for both adults and children when received. The vaccine also has the power to protect against other diseases such as Diphtheria. The following is the tetanus vaccine schedules for children and adults:
For Children
The DTaP shot is one immunization that protects children against tetanus, Diphtheria, and pertussis. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), children should receive this vaccine based on the following age periods:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 15-18 months
- 4-6 years
At age 11-12, children should receive the Tdap booster shot which protects them against the same three diseases.
For Adults
10 years after a child has received the Tdap booster shot, they will be an adult and will need the Td shot to protect against tetanus and Diphtheria. If you have never received the vaccine as a child, you will need the Tdap vaccine, followed by the Td booster shot ten years after.
Importance of the Tetanus Shot
Tetanus is quite rare in North America which is caused by a bacteria that causes muscle spasms in your abdomen, the neck, and stomach. Also known as lockjaw, tetanus can occur in the face and neck, causing the jaw to become stuck. The tetanus vaccine protects against the toxins that the bacteria from tetanus causes. Vaccination is absolutely essential in the prevention of tetanus. The majority of cases of an individual having tetanus is a result of failure to have ever received the immunization or inability to keep up with the current shots.
Why Does Tetanus Development?
The bacteria, also known as Clostridium Tetani, live in dust, saliva, and manure. If you have an open cut or wound that becomes exposed to the bacteria, it can enter your body and produce tetanus.
Allwell Pharmacy is your compounding pharmacy in Brampton and Mississauga for effective and efficient vaccines to keep you safe and healthy. Our certified and highly trained pharmacists can inject the necessary vaccine to ensure your optimal health. Book an appointment with us or walk-in during our hours! We’re always happy to welcome new patients, register online with and get 25% off your first Over-The-Counter product purchase!