Tetanus Booster Administration by a Direct Primary Care Doctor in Orlando, FL

Do you remember the last time you had a tetanus shot? If not, chances are you’re due for booster administration to protect you against tetanus. Also known as lockjaw, tetanus is a life-threatening bacterial infection that affects the nervous system.

Usually, a tetanus infection occurs when a particular strain of bacteria (Clostridium tetani) found in soil, dust, and animal feces enters the skin through a deep puncture wound, such as an animal bite. Once inside the body, the growing bacteria produce a powerful toxin (tetanospasmin), which impairs the nerves that control the muscles. This can cause severe muscle stiffness and painful muscle contractions, especially in the neck and jaw, which can lead to difficulty breathing and respiratory failure.

Prevent Tetanus With a Booster Shot

While the risk of tetanus is high in developing countries, it is relatively low in the United States, and this is mainly due to the prevalence of the tetanus vaccine. For adults who received basic immunizations as children, the U.S. Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) recommend tetanus booster administration every 10 years. Adults are typically given a combination tetanus vaccine, such as:

Td — Provides protection against tetanus and diphtheria, a highly contagious bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, leading to difficulty breathing and swallowing
Tdap — Provides protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory infection also known as whooping cough

If you’re uncertain about your immunization record, it’s best to err on the side of caution. You can safely receive a Tdap vaccine at any time, regardless of when you had your last Td booster shot. Additionally, even if you’ve been fully vaccinated, you should still seek immediate medical attention if you have a deep or dirty wound, which may require antibiotic treatment.

If you have questions about tetanus booster administration, Optimum Direct Care has answers. Contact our direct primary care practice in Orlando, FL, to learn about our comprehensive membership-based services.

“When I left my corporate job to start my own business, one of many new challenges was finding quality health care. When I was starting to look for a new Primary Care Doctor, a peer recommended Direct Primary Care. I did some research and found Dr. Muzzi. In the years leading up to finding Dr. Muzzi, the way I think about my health evolved to fit a more modern view of health and science with a focus on overall wellness and preventative medicine. I was surprised and delighted on my first visit to find Dr. Muzzi not only shared this view, but was practicing medicine in this way. Focusing on my overall wellness rather than treating symptoms has improved my quality of life and undoubtedly add quality years to my life. Dr. Muzzi knows me. She knows what I do for work, where I travel, sports and activities, our pets, what I wear to Burning Man and even knows my Dad (who approves!). Taken at face value, this may seem like a cute note to show that we’re friendly. But this depth of knowledge is organically woven into the care she provides every time we speak and my health is better for it. I never imagined Dr. Muzzi existed before I found her. Now, I can’t picture a future of my healthcare without her. If the traditional Doctor / Patient relationship makes you feel like you’re stuck in I4 traffic (frustrated & certain no one will ever fix it) and you want to change that, you’re in the right place.”
Bill F.

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