Tetanus Immunization and Suture Stitches Specialist in Cincinnati, OH

Yes, it’s generally recommended to get a tetanus shot after getting stitches if it’s been more than 10 years since your last tetanus shot. This is because the risk of tetanus increases when the skin is broken, such as with a cut or wound that requires stitches. Getting a tetanus shot can help prevent this infection and ensure you stay protected. Additionally, if your wound is deep or dirty, you may need to get a booster shot within 48 hours of getting stitches. 

Wounds that are at high risk for tetanus are those that are:

• Deep: Cuts or lacerations that penetrate deep into the skin, especially those that extend to the muscle or bone. Tetanus bacteria can easily colonize in these areas, increasing the risk of infection.
• Dirty: Wounds that come into contact with contaminated soil, feces, or other bodily fluids. Soil and manure can contain spores of the tetanus bacteria, Clostridium tetani, which can enter the wound and cause infection.
• Contaminated: Wounds that are infected with bacteria, such as MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) or E. coli. These bacteria can co-infect with tetanus bacteria, making it more difficult to treat the wound and increasing the risk of tetanus.
• Puncture wounds: Wounds that are caused by a puncture from an object, such as a nail or screw, which can push bacteria deep into the wound. 
• Crush injuries: Wounds that occur when an object crushes the skin and underlying tissue, which can cause damage to blood vessels and increase the risk of infection. Crush injuries often require surgical intervention and may be at higher risk for tetanus due to the extensive tissue damage.
• Old wounds: Wounds that are left untreated or not properly cared for over time can increase the risk of tetanus. Bacteria can multiply slowly over time, allowing them to establish a stronghold in the wound and increase the risk of infection.
• Wounds in areas with poor circulation: Wounds located in areas with poor circulation, such as those on the legs or feet, may be at higher risk for tetanus.

Proper wound care and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of tetanus infection.

It’s generally recommended to get a tetanus vaccine as soon as possible after a wound or injury that is at risk for tetanus. The exact timing of the vaccine may vary depending on the severity of the wound and your individual circumstances.

In general, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following:

• For clean, minor wounds, a booster dose of tetanus toxoid vaccine (TT) is not necessary if you have had three doses of TT in the past 10 years.
• For dirty, minor wounds or wounds that penetrate the skin deeply, a booster dose of TT is recommended within 48-72 hours after the injury.
• For deep or puncture wounds, especially those that are dirty or contaminated, a booster dose of TT is recommended as soon as possible, and ideally within 24 hours after the injury.

Always stay on the side of caution and get vaccinated as soon as possible if you’re at risk for tetanus.

Yes, you can get a tetanus shot at any time. However, the timing of the shot depends on your vaccination history and medical circumstances.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you can get a tetanus shot:

• As a booster dose: If you’ve had three or more doses of tetanus toxoid vaccine (TT) in the past 10 years, you don’t need another dose unless your healthcare provider recommends it.
• After a wound or injury: If you have a wound or injury that’s at risk for tetanus, you can get a booster dose of TT within 48-72 hours after the injury.
• As a catch-up vaccination: If you’re under 65 years old and haven’t had a tetanus booster in the past 10 years, you can get a catch-up vaccination.
• According to a medical professional’s recommendation: Your healthcare provider may recommend a tetanus shot if they determine you’re at risk for tetanus due to a medical condition, travel, or other factors.

It’s generally not recommended to get a tetanus shot too frequently, as this can cause unnecessary reactions and side effects. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends not getting more than one tetanus shot every 10 years. For more information, contact us or book an appointment. We are conveniently located at 872 Ohio Pike Cincinnati, OH 45245. We serve patients from Cincinnati OH, Covedale OH, Delhi OH, St Bernard OH, Wilders KY, and Elmwood Place OH.