Q It’s years since I had a tetanus jab. Should I have a booster?
ATetanus (lockjaw) infection is very rare in the UK now; only five cases were reported last year in England. But the infection was more severe in those who hadn’t been completely immunised, and it’s still potentially life-threatening.
Tetanus spores are widely present in soil, and can enter the body through even trivial wounds, especially if they’re contaminated or break the skin.
Childhood immunisation against tetanus began in 1961 and is now included in the ‘6-in-1’ combined vaccine offered to babies aged eight, 12 and 16 weeks. They also get boosters around the age of 4, and again at 14. Five lifetime injections are now considered adequate, and 10-yearly boosters are no longer routinely recommended, but if you’re older and unsure whether you’ve had a basic course, plus two boosters (if applicable), consult your practice nurse.
Even full immunisation may still not protect, however, if you suffer a deep or contaminated wound. Seek prompt medical advice, so the wound can be cleaned; you may be offered a further booster and/or injection of protective blood protein from someone who is immune. See nhs.uk.