The tetanus vaccine doesn't provide lifelong immunity; its protection decreases after approximately 10 years. Therefore, booster shots are recommended every decade.
Tetanus Vaccine Expiry: Understanding the Duration of Protection
While the initial tetanus vaccination series provides significant protection, it's not permanent. The effectiveness of the tetanus vaccine wanes over time, necessitating booster shots to maintain immunity. This is because the number of antibodies produced in response to the vaccine decreases gradually.
Recommended Booster Schedule
| Booster Interval | Protection Duration |
|---|---|
| Every 10 years | Maintains immunity |
Why Booster Shots are Important
- Maintaining Immunity: Regular boosters ensure sufficient antibody levels to protect against tetanus.
- Preventing Infection: Tetanus is a serious infection caused by bacteria entering the body through wounds. Boosters minimize the risk of contracting this potentially fatal disease.
- Staying Protected: Following the recommended schedule is the best way to stay protected from tetanus throughout your life.
Tetanus Source
- Information derived from: 02-Aug-2018
