All children need to get a tetanus shot. This bacterium isn’t just found on rusty metal items, it also lives in soil and dirt. If your child enjoys running around outside barefoot, they must be keeping up with their tetanus shots.
When should my child get their first tetanus shot?
Tetanus is completely preventable with a vaccination. The DTaP vaccine is used to prevent tetanus (along with diphtheria and pertussis) and your child will get their first series of shots at 2, 4, and 6 months, another between 15 to 18 months old and between 4-6 years old.
Children should continue to get a tetanus shot during their annual pediatric checkup until they turn 18 years old, getting the Tdap booster shot instead. Once your child reaches adulthood, they will get a Td vaccination.
What are the signs and symptoms of tetanus?
Most children will develop symptoms within two weeks of exposure. Symptoms include painful and severe muscle spasms, shoulder/jaw/neck stiffness, difficulty breathing and swallowing, rapid heart rate, and fever. If left untreated, tetanus can be life-threatening.