You should get a tetanus shot according to the following recommendations:
- For children, the DTaP vaccine series is given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15 to 18 months, and 4 to 6 years old.
- A Tdap booster is recommended at age 11 or 12.
- Adults should receive a Tdap or Td booster shot every 10 years to maintain protection.
- Pregnant women are advised to get a tetanus booster during the third trimester of each pregnancy.
In case of injury (such as cuts, puncture wounds, burns, or bites), a tetanus shot may be needed if:
- The wound is contaminated with dirt, saliva, or rust.
- It has been more than 5 years since your last tetanus booster.
- You are unsure when your last tetanus shot was.
The tetanus shot should ideally be given as soon as possible after a wound that could be prone to tetanus infection, preferably within 48 to 72 hours to prevent symptoms.
