Sylvania, OH
A 18-year-old male asked:
am i still able to get tetanus if i got a small cut by a clean looking nail outside and my last tetanus shot was 4-5 years ago?
1 doctor answer • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Randy Baker answered
Holistic Medicine 40 years experience
Highly unlikely: Fortunately tetanus is a very rare disease and esp. Rare in those who have been vaccinated. If you were vaccinated within the past 10 years there is no need to get a booster. I would like to say there is no chance of you getting tetanus but can't- there are very rare cases in those who have been vaccinated, but they tend to be less serious. See http://www.Vaclib.Org/basic/health/boostershots.Htm.
5322 views
Dr. Randy Baker commented
Holistic Medicine 40 years experience
Provided original answer
Since I wrote this answer new research suggests that tetanus vaccines last 30 years so there is no need to get a booster after an injury unless it has been 30 years since your last booster!!!
See https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160322133817.htm
Oct 5, 2017
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Last updated Sep 2, 2020
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits
$15 per month
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.