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A member asked:
Cut with a rusty tool but i've been immunized against tetanus do i really need to go to doctors?
11 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
No - if cut is OK: As long as the tetanus shot was within 5 years, you don't need another for a rusty metal laceration. However, if the cut easily opens up when you move the body part or is dirty, you may heal much faster with care/stitches. Also, there is a new tetanus shot that adds pertussis vaccine, preventing a lot of bronchitis in adults and keeping infants safe from whooping cough - get it if around infants.
Answered 5/12/2014
6.2k views
It depends: While it is generally recommended to get a tetanus shot every 10 years in order to maintain immunity, if you get a dirty cut or wound and it has been over 5 years since your last tetanus shot, it may be good to get a booster. Wash the cut out well with soap and water. If it looks like it is getting infected, then i would suggest seeing your doctor.
Answered 3/28/2012
5.9k views
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