A tetanus shot is recommended as part of routine vaccination and also in response to certain injuries. Generally:
- For adults, a tetanus booster shot (Td or Tdap) is recommended every 10 years.
- Children receive a series of DTaP shots starting in infancy and booster doses through early childhood.
- Preteens should get a Tdap booster at age 11-12.
- If a person suffers a dirty or deep wound and hasn't had a tetanus booster in the last 5 years, a tetanus shot is recommended as soon as possible, ideally within 48 to 72 hours after injury.
- Pregnant women are advised to get a Tdap shot during the early part of the third trimester of each pregnancy.
Therefore, one should get a tetanus shot according to the routine vaccination schedule or sooner if there is a risk of tetanus from an injury and the last booster was more than 5 years ago or unknown.
