Flood Waters & Tetanus

What You Need to Know from the Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department

What is tetanus?

Also known as “lockjaw”, tetanus is a disease of the nerves caused by

bacteria in a contaminated wound.

• The tetanus bacteria is commonly found in soil.
• It enters the body through any opening, from a slight scratch to a severe wound.
• It can cause painful spasms of all muscles, convulsions and even death.

Who should get Td (tetanus/diphtheria) vaccine?

• Persons lacking a complete primary series of tetanus and diphtheria vaccines.

• Persons who have not had a booster of Td in the last 10 years.
• Persons who have a more severe or dirty wound if more than 5 years have elapsed since their last Td booster.

Remember

• Exposure to flood water alone is not a reason to receive a tetanus vaccine.

 

To find out if you need a tetanus vaccine, contact your health care provider or the Wheeling Ohio County Health Department. For more information call 304.234.3682