What is a tetanus shot, and is it considered a vaccination?

Immunization: Tetanus is caused by an infection and used to be called lock-jaw. The spores of the germ can be found in soil, and may enter the body through a cut or other skin injury. The shot is a vaccine or immunization to prevent infection. Children get this with DPT vaccine up to age 11 or 12. The tetanus vaccine should be given as a booster dose about every 10 years.