How often do I need a tetnus shot?!
Question:
How often do I need a tetnus shot?
I think I had one last year - but I now have a new doc who wants me to get another....
Answers:
Request your medical records from your prior physician, and have them transferred to your new doctor, or get them and take them to your new doc yourself. Have your new doc look through your records to see if you did indeed get a tetanus shot last year.
Usually, the given time for a tetanus booster is once every 10 years (unless you've had a recent, penetrating wound - then they'll just give you one as a precaution). There are two kinds that are given to adults - the Td version, which protects again tetanus and diptheria, and the Tdap version, which protects against tetanus, diptheria and pertussis.