What is Tetanus?

Tetanus is a serious but rare infection caused by bacteria. It usually happens when a flesh wound becomes contaminated with different substances including soil, house dust, animal and human waste, such as manure. It disrupts the normal working of the nerves, causing symptoms such as stiffness and muscle spasms. If it is not treated, Tetanus may lead to complications, which can be fatal.

The Tetanus vaccination/immunisation

A full course of Tetanus vaccination consists of five doses of the vaccine. This should be enough to give you long-term protection from Tetanus. However if you’re not sure how many doses you’ve received you may need a booster dose after an injury that breaks your skin.

If you’ve definitely received five doses of the Tetanus vaccine you are fully vaccinated and don’t need a booster dose.

You have been given a Tetanus booster today which is a combined vaccine of

  • Tetanus, diphtheria/inactivated polio vaccine (Td/IPV)

Side effects

Minor side effects are quite common, usually being soreness at the site of the injection with some redness. This should only last a day or so and is unlikely to be larger than the size of a 50p coin. You may also feel unwell for a day or so, with a mild headache, slight aching of the muscles and a mild temperature/fever. If you are concerned or have a very strong reaction you should seek advice from your GP. It is quite safe to take Paracetamol if the soreness bothers you.

Let your GP know that you have had the vaccination so they can make a note of it in your records.

Should you have any worries or concerns please contact NHS 111.

Confidentiality

‘The Trust’s vision is to keep your information safe in our hands.’ We promise to use your information fairly and legally, and in-line with local and national policies. You have a right to understand how your information is used and you can request a copy of the information we hold about you at any time.

For further information on confidentiality contact the Information Governance Team:

Information.Governance@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 603961

Feedback

We appreciate and encourage feedback, which helps us to improve our services. If you have any comments, compliments or concerns to make about your care, please contact the Patient, Advice & Liaison Service:

pals@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 814008 or 01946 523818

If you would like to raise a complaint regarding your care, please contact the Complaints Department:

complaints@ncic.nhs.uk | 01228 936302