Dog bites rarely cause tetanus. Most children born in the US have received three tetanus shots (boosters) in the past, because these boosters are part of the usual vaccination schedule. Additional tetanus boosters are given every 10 years.

Those who require treatment to prevent tetanus include:

• Those who have not had 3 tetanus boosters in the past need a tetanus booster after a skin wound.
• Those who have not received a tetanus booster in the past 10 years need a tetanus booster after a skin wound.
• Those who have dirty wounds need a tetanus booster if they have not received a booster in the past 5 years.

Dirty wounds include:

• Wounds that occur outdoors
• Wounds that contain dirt or foreign material
• Wounds caused by bites

Treatment Options

• Tetanus booster:
• A tetanus booster stimulates the immune system to make antibodies against the tetanus toxin.
• A tetanus booster may be given to those who have received 3 tetanus boosters in the past.
• The tetanus booster may be given within 72 hours after the wound occurs.
• Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG):
• TIG contains an antibody that deactivates the tetanus toxin.
• TIG must be given to those who have not received 3 tetanus boosters in the past.

Treatment Recommendations

	Clean, Minor Wounds		All Other Wounds
Vaccine History	Td	TIG	Td	TIG
Unknown or <3 doses	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
3+ doses	No*	No	No**	No

(*) Yes, if greater than 10 years since last dose
(**) Yes, if greater than 5 years since last dose
(Td) Tetanus booster
(TIG) Tetanus Immune Globulin