Tetanus Shot

A tetanus shot is a vaccine that protects against tetanus, a rare but serious infection that enters the body through a wound. Adults need a tetanus shot booster every 10 years, and sooner after some injuries. Tdap and Td are the two vaccines used.

What Is It

Tetanus bacteria live in soil, dust, and animal waste. They enter through cuts, punctures, burns, and bites, then release a toxin that causes painful muscle stiffness. Tetanus is rare in the US because most people are vaccinated, but protection fades over time.

Who Needs a Tetanus Shot

A puncture wound, like stepping on a nail
A cut that is dirty or exposed to soil
An animal bite or scratch
A burn or crush injury
Last tetanus shot more than 10 years ago, or not sure when
Pregnancy, with Tdap given during each pregnancy

Not sure if your wound needs care? Cuts that gape or keep bleeding are covered under cuts and lacerations. Bites from pets and other animals are covered under dog and animal bites.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider cleans and checks the wound and reviews your vaccine history. A Tdap or Td shot may be given based on the type of wound and how long ago your last shot was. Deep or dirty wounds may need more care.

At home:

Wash any wound with soap and running water
Keep track of the date of your last tetanus shot
Cover the wound with a clean bandage
Watch for redness, swelling, or pus

The shot site may be sore for 1 to 2 days.

When to Get a Tetanus Shot

Watch at Home

A clean, minor scrape with a tetanus shot in the last 10 years
Mild soreness at a recent shot site

Come to Urgent Care Today

A dirty or puncture wound and your last shot was more than 5 years ago
An animal bite or scratch
You are due for your 10 year booster
You never finished the childhood tetanus series or are not sure

Go to the Emergency Department

Jaw stiffness or muscle spasms days after a wound
Trouble swallowing or breathing
A deep wound with bleeding that will not stop
A body part that is crushed or partly cut off

FAQ

How long does a tetanus shot last?

A tetanus shot protects for about 10 years. After a dirty or deep wound, a booster may be needed if your last shot was more than 5 years ago.

When should you get a tetanus shot after a cut?

Get a tetanus shot after a cut if it is dirty, deep, or a puncture and your last shot was more than 5 years ago, or if you are not sure.

What is the difference between Tdap and Td?

Tdap protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. Td protects against tetanus and diphtheria only. Adults should get Tdap at least once.

How soon after an injury do you need a tetanus shot?

A tetanus shot works best when given within 48 hours of an injury, but it can still help if given later. Do not wait if the wound is dirty.

Can urgent care give a tetanus shot?

Yes, urgent care can give a tetanus shot. Vitality Urgent Care offers Tdap at both clinics, and a provider can clean and check the wound at the same visit. No appointment or referral is needed.

When is tetanus an emergency?

Tetanus is an emergency when jaw stiffness, muscle spasms, or trouble swallowing or breathing start days after a wound. Call 911 or go to the ER.

Last reviewed October 2026