Tetanus Toxoid (Systemic)
CategoryDescriptionTetanus (TET-n-us) Toxoid is used to prevent
tetanus (also known as lockjaw). Tetanus is a serious illness that causes
convulsions (seizures) and severe muscle spasms that can be strong enough
to cause bone fractures of the spine. Tetanus causes death in 30 to 40 percent
of cases.
Immunization against tetanus is recommended for all infants 6 to 8 weeks
of age and older, all children, and all adults. Immunization against tetanus
consists first of a series of either 3 or 4 injections, depending on which
type of tetanus toxoid you receive. In addition, it is very important that
you get a booster injection every 10 years for the rest of your life. Also,
if you get a wound that is unclean or hard to clean, you may need an emergency
booster injection if it has been more than 5 years since your last booster.
In recent years, two-thirds of all tetanus cases have been in persons 50 years
of age and older. A tetanus infection in the past does not make you immune
to tetanus in the future.
This vaccine is to be administered only by or under the supervision of
your doctor or other health care professional. It is available in the following
dosage form:
Parenteral
-
Injection (U.S. and Canada)
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