A member asked:

Scratched leg on slightly rusty bench. didn't bleed but scratched/broke skin. do i need a tetanus shot? last vaccine was at 15yo. rubbed alcohol on it

3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Milton Alvis, jr answered

Specializes in Preventive Medicine

The far larger risk: is from rusty nail which has been buried in soil, is damp, & produces a deep dirty puncture wound containing necrotic tissue which allows spores of Clostridium tetani to grow and produce the neurotoxin. Study: http://www.who.int/immunization/topics/tetanus/en/index1.html. A superficial abrasion from something dry is likely comparatively quite low risk.

Answered 7/4/2015

2.6k views

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Dr. Alan Levine answered

Specializes in Pediatrics

Maybe.......: Having had a tetanus shot 5 years ago, you should be protected. As the nail was rusty, this is considered aa tetanus-prone wound and you should discuss the possible need for a booster with your MD.

Answered 11/28/2017

2.6k views

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