Tetanus
Tetanus: What You Need to Know
Tetanus, or lockjaw, is a serious disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which can enter the body through cuts, open wounds, or punctures. It can lead to painful muscle spasms and, if untreated, may become life-threatening.
Who Should Be Informed?
Employees in facilities management, healthcare, or animal research roles are particularly at risk and should be aware of their tetanus immunization status. The vaccine is typically administered in a series of three doses during childhood.
Immunization and Boosters
If you are unsure about your last tetanus immunization date, a booster dose is recommended, and boosters should continue every 10 years to maintain immunity. Tetanus vaccines are often combined with the diphtheria vaccine (Td). For those with regular animal contact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highly recommend a tetanus booster within the last 10 years.
Prompt Action for Wounds
Seek medical attention promptly for any wound, as a booster may be required sooner than the standard 10-year interval. Remember to report all work-related injuries to your supervisor and complete the Online Incident Report
Immunization Requirements for Animal Contact
If you work with animals, it is essential to record your last tetanus immunization in your medical evaluation as part of your animal occupational health form.
- If you’ve received a Tdap vaccination within the past 10 years, or currently have one, please submit your vaccination records to ehsocchealth@ucr.edu.
- A new vaccine portal will be available in April 2025, but students should use the existing patient portal for now.
Need Assistance?
For help with vaccine record submission, contact ehsocchealth@ucr.edu.
Stay proactive about your health and safety—protect yourself against tetanus!
Guide to Tetanus Prophylaxis
Prompt and appropriate post-exposure care is essential to prevent tetanus in patients with wounds. Certain groups are at higher risk, including older adults, people who inject drugs, individuals with chronic wounds, and anyone with an uncertain vaccination history.
The California Department of Public Health's (CDPH) Tetanus Quicksheet (opens in a new tab) offers a straightforward, practical guide to support clinical decision-making. It includes a simplified quick-reference table and key notes based on the CDC’s Summary Guide to Tetanus Prophylaxis in Routine Wound Management (Red Book 2024–2027, Fig. 3.19).
The California Department of Public Health's (CDPH) Tetanus Prophylaxis in Wound Management (opens in a new tab) provides detailed recommendations on vaccine use and when to administer Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG). It specifies that Tdap is recommended for patients with wounds that are not clean or minor if five or more years have passed since their last dose, and that both Tdap and TIG should be given when immunization history is uncertain or incomplete. This guidance helps clinicians tailor treatment based on wound type and vaccination history, ensuring timely and effective prophylaxis.
Resources Regarding Tetanus:
CDC Tetanus Overview:
The CDC's Pinkbook that provides detailed information on Diphtheria, which often discusses Tetanus as well since they share a vaccine (DTaP). This resource is valuable for healthcare providers needing in-depth knowledge about the disease, vaccine schedules, and management protocols.
CDC Pinkbook on Diphtheria: Chapter 7: Diphtheria | Pink Book | CDC
Td (Tetanus, Diphtheria) Vaccine Guide