How do you know when to get a tetanus shot?

Question

About 3 weeks ago I got a cut on my foot from rolling the cart in the laundry mat to get my clothes. It is healing pretty nicely. I didnt think about a shot at all untill two weeks later over a family dinner it was brought up. I got so nervous. Do you think I should have gotten a shot?

Answer 1

You are supposed to have a tetanus shot every 10 years.  If you have a puncture wound and don't remember how long ago your last tetanus shot was, they will normally give you one.  I think since 2 weeks has gone by, you are ok.  It is usually puncture wounds that can be dangerous, because an object goes up inside the body and introduces different germs, and the wound does not usually bleed very much.  Puncture wounds also can get easily infected for this reason....

Answer 2

If you've had a tetanus shot within the past 5 years, then you don't need to repeat it as the protection it gives you is 100% for 5 years after a shot, and a little less for up to 10 years.

If you haven't had a tetanus shot within the past 5 years or you can't remember when you last had one, you should get one now; and don't worry, it's not too late!