Tetanus Vaccination

Home / Our Services / Travel Consultation Services / Tetanus Vaccination

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a severe disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium. It leads to muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles.

Visit a travel clinic

Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a severe disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium. It leads to muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles.

There is no cure for tetanus.

The widespread use of vaccines has made cases rare in Canada and other developed countries. However, it remains a threat to those who are not up to date on their vaccinations and is more common in developing countries. To ensure your protection, book an appointment at Mint Health + Drugs for the tetanus vaccine. Don’t take chances with your health—get vaccinated and stay safe.

Every Canadian should receive a tetanus booster every 10 years as part of their routine immunization program. This simplifies what needs to be done after wounds and bites that have potential tetanus exposure. Also the tetanus vaccine includes diphtheria and pertussis protection. Pertussis is more commonly known as whooping cough which can be very dangerous, especially for babies.

Tetanus Symptoms

The time from being infected to the onset of symptoms (incubation period) for tetanus is typically 10 days, but it can range from 3 to 21 days. The most common type of tetanus is generalized tetanus, which usually begins with symptoms in the jaw and then progresses downward over two weeks.

Symptoms of tetanus include:

Painful muscle spasms
Muscle rigidity in the jaw
Tension around the lips
Difficulty swallowing
Rigid abdominal muscles
Seizures (jerking or staring)
Headache
Fever and sweating
Changes in blood pressure and heart rate

Get Protected

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or a travel health specialist to assess the specific vaccination recommendations based on the travel itinerary and individual health considerations.

To ensure your protection against tetanus, schedule an appointment for the tetanus vaccine at Mint Health + Drugs. Tetanus is a serious disease, and getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent it. Our pharmacists can offer valuable information on required and recommended vaccinations, as well as essential tips for maintaining good health while traveling. Get in touch or book an appointment with our Travel Consultation Pharmacists.

What happens if you don't get a tetanus shot within 48 hours after potential exposure?

If you don’t get a tetanus shot within 48 hours of a potential tetanus-causing injury, you may be at risk of developing tetanus. Tetanus is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease. Without prompt medical attention and vaccination, the infection can lead to long-term complications such as airway obstruction, heart failure, muscle damage, and even death.

It’s important to seek medical attention immediately if you haven’t had a tetanus shot within the last five years and experience any of these symptoms. Tetanus is a preventable disease, and timely vaccination is crucial to reduce the risk of severe complications.

Can a person recover from tetanus?

With proper treatment, most people can recover from tetanus. However, the recovery process can take several months. Severe muscle spasms may last for about three to four weeks and then slowly improve. Once the spasms subside, full recovery may take several months. It’s important to seek immediate medical care if you suspect a tetanus infection, as proper treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Can your body naturally fight off tetanus?

While the body’s natural immune response can help fight many infections, in the case of tetanus, vaccination is the most reliable method to prevent the disease. Therefore, seeking medical advice for appropriate immunization and wound care is crucial to protect against tetanus.

Talk to a Pharmacist