Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Updated : April 26, 2017 10:25 AM IST
If you ask whether taking a tetanus injection during pregnancy is necessary? So yes, you must get a tetanus injection during pregnancy as it protects you and the baby against infection caused by Clostridium tetani.
World Immunisation Week is from 24th April 30th April and the theme for this year is #VaccinesWork.
It is important for every child to get vaccinated to prevent various infections. And one such mandatory vaccines is tetanus. However, tetanus vaccine is usually given in the first year of a child s life, there are various stages of life and conditions, that require you to get a tetanus shot. This World Immunisation Week, Dr Rahul Nagpal, Director & HOD, Paediatrics and Neonatology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj sheds light on who should get the tetanus vaccine.
#1. If you did not receive a primary immunisation series during childhood, then you must get a DTP ((diphtheria, pertussis or whooping cough and tetanus) vaccination to prevent your risk of suffering from the respective disease.
#2. If you have received the vaccine but failed to get a booster dose within the past 10 years, then it is wise to get a vaccine shot for tetanus. Usually, a booster dose is given during the second and fifth year of the child (if the child is given a dose during her first year). Here's everything about vaccines you need to know.
#3. A tetanus vaccine is also recommended for older adults and diabetics. This is because they are at a higher risk for tetanus and might not have received a booster vaccine in the last 10 years.
#4. You might even be recommended a tetanus vaccine before undergoing surgery to prevent your risk of infection. Moreover, any adult who has recovered from tetanus (lockjaw) disease should receive Tdap or Td without fail.
#5. If you haven't got the tetanus vaccination till date, then ensure you get a single Tdap dose in place of one Td booster to lower your risk and prevent the infection.
#6. If you are in contact with infants, who are younger than a year, then you should also receive Tdap vaccine. This is because it offers protection against pertussis (whooping cough).
#7. If you are pregnant, then it is advised to get a tetanus vaccine as it can help you to prevent neonatal tetanus. Moreover, if the mother is vaccinated, the infant acquires immunity and is protected against many infections. Here's more on why do you need a tetanus vaccination during pregnancy.
Do remember that vaccination provides protection to the vaccinated individual only and this protection can t be transmitted from one person to another. Also, Tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine should be given to adults in place of just Td vaccine to protect them against pertussis ( whooping cough), too. Tetanus is a safe injection as long as it is taken straight out of the fridge and administered. Also read about when and why do you need tetanus shots.
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