HomeAnswersInternal Medicinetetanus toxoid vaccineShould I repeat the tetanus vaccine for a needle prick?

What is the longevity of the tetanus vaccine?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At August 12, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 10, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have taken tetanus vaccine (Adsorbed) I.P. due to a cut by a steel object last week. However, there was no bleeding. Today I had a needle prick on my left thigh while trying to sew one button of my pant, but there was no bleeding. It is just a small prick. So, I have two questions,

1) Do I need to take the tetanus vaccine again?

2) What is the longevity period of the last tetanus vaccine that I have taken? Meaning to ask that when I have to take the tetanus vaccine again and in between if I cut any finger or any place of my body with any sharp object do I have to again take tetanus injection?

Kindly give me your suggestions.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I have gone through the image you have attached (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). So my answers to your question are as follows:

1. Answer to your first question is, at present no need to take another tetanus injection because your recent tetanus shot was last week. If the gap is more than two months and if the injury is severe then we need to check for immunoglobulin levels before giving a booster dose. So in your case, no need for any booster at present.

2. The answer to your second question. This injection will protect you for one year. But in case within one year, if you encounter severe injuries then again you need to get immunoglobulin levels checked. If it is low, booster is needed. If adequate then nothing should be done.

I hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further. Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar
Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

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