After a Tetanus Shot: How to Care for Your Child

Tetanus shots protect your child from bacteria (a type of germ) that cause tetanus, a serious but preventable disease. These germs can enter the body through cuts and wounds. Kids need several tetanus shots during childhood to fully protect them from tetanus.

• Your health care provider may recommend acetaminophen (Tylenol® or a store brand) OR ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand) if your child feels sore in the area of the shot, or has a fever or aches.

• A cool, wet cloth can help to reduce swelling or pain in the area of the shot.

• Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids if he or she doesn't want to eat as much as usual.

• Your child gets a rash.

• Your child has nausea, vomiting (throwing up), diarrhea, or a stomachache.

• Redness, swelling, or pain in the area of the shot gets worse.

• Your child has a fever for more than 2 days.

• Your child looks or acts very sick.

• You have any other questions or concerns.

Call 911 if your child has signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as hoarseness, wheezing, trouble breathing, a swollen face, pale skin, or weakness or dizziness.

What is tetanus? Tetanus is an illness caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani. These germs live all around us and are harmless if we breathe them in or swallow them. But when they get in a cut or wound, they can make a toxin (harmful chemical). This toxin spreads through the body. It causes muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. The muscle spasms make it hard to swallow and breathe.

Who should get a tetanus shot? Tetanus shots are recommended for:

• all kids 6 weeks to 6 years old, as part of a series of shots that protect against several different diseases (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis)

• kids 11–12 years old

• older kids and adults who've never had a tetanus shot

• kids and adults who have a deep or dirty wound and had their last tetanus shot more than 5 years ago

• all pregnant women, during each pregnancy

• all adults, every 10 years

How does a tetanus shot protect my child? A tetanus shot is a vaccine. The body responds to vaccines by making special proteins called antibodies. With a tetanus shot, these antibodies lock onto tetanus toxins and make them harmless. This keeps your child from getting sick.

How will my child feel after the tetanus shot? Most kids feel well after a tetanus shot. Some kids might feel sore in the area of the shot, with some redness or swelling. They may get a headache or mild fever. Some kids also feel tired or less hungry. These side effects can last 1 or 2 days and are usually very mild. They aren't as bad as tetanus, which can cause very serious health problems and can even be life-threatening.