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Is Anti-tetanus Vaccination Required For A Minor Scratch From Iron Rod?
Hi, my daughter is 5 years old. She got a minor scratch, which just opened her skin without any bleeding, from a iron rod lying outside our house. She has received all her vaccinations on time in the past. Does she require an anti-tetanus for this scratch?
Fri, 25 Jul 2014
Hi there. Great question! Parents frequently have to deal with this issue but thankfully in this case it sounds like you can be reassured.
You should check your child's vaccination card (- most likely she has recieved thus far 4 tetanus vaccinations ;at 2, 4, 6 months old and probably a 4th one again between 12-15 months old). If she has gotten at least 3 tetanus shots, she is well protected against minor wounds (such as the one you have desribed) for 10 years - that is until age 11! For deep and dirty wounds, protection is only for 5 years (until age 6).
As a rule, always have a doctor examine the wound to determine that is in fact minor and a to verify vaccines received by looking at your vaccination record!!
Sounds like all you need in this case is to clean the wound with soap or disinfectant. Hugs and kisses always help lots too!!
Stay well,
Dr. Jonah Kruger, pediatrician
You should check your child's vaccination card (- most likely she has recieved thus far 4 tetanus vaccinations ;at 2, 4, 6 months old and probably a 4th one again between 12-15 months old). If she has gotten at least 3 tetanus shots, she is well protected against minor wounds (such as the one you have desribed) for 10 years - that is until age 11! For deep and dirty wounds, protection is only for 5 years (until age 6).
As a rule, always have a doctor examine the wound to determine that is in fact minor and a to verify vaccines received by looking at your vaccination record!!
Sounds like all you need in this case is to clean the wound with soap or disinfectant. Hugs and kisses always help lots too!!
Stay well,
Dr. Jonah Kruger, pediatrician
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