IN MY VIEW... GET A TETANUS BOOSTER

I WOULD strongly advise readers to keep their protection against tetanus up to date — with a booster injection every ten years. Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium

tetani, which is found in soil. While uncommon since vaccination was introduced in 1961, the infection can be fatal. At least one in ten of those who develop it die, even in developed countries such as the UK.

After entering the body through any wound such as a scratch, the bacterium multiplies and releases a toxin that affects the nerves, causing rigid neck muscles, painful spasms and breathing problems.

The wife of a colleague of my father, in late-middle age and unvaccinated since childhood, developed tetanus after pricking her hand on a rose thorn while gardening and died.

Children are protected by statutory vaccinations — the last being a booster at 14, which should cover them until their mid-20s.

Subsequently in adult life, however, there are no routine arrangements and tetanus protection is only given if or when we receive medical care for an injury in which the skin is broken (although some people will have a booster as part of their travel vaccinations).

But I think all adults should get a tetanus booster every ten years, which is easily obtained from their GP. I am up to date with mine.