Which part of the body is the tetanus shot administered?

Written by Xu Jun Hui

General Surgery

Updated on April 11, 2025

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Tetanus shots are administered in the buttocks or the muscular part of the upper arm, typically given as a muscle injection. Tetanus shots must not be administered intravenously. Before administering a tetanus shot, a skin test is conducted. If the skin test is positive, it is necessary to switch to a tetanus immune globulin that does not require a skin test; if the skin test is negative, a muscle injection can be performed. Tetanus is caused by the colonization of Clostridium tetani in the human body, producing neurotoxins, leading to a specific type of infection. Therefore, if the wound is deep and heavily contaminated, it is essential to promptly treat with a tetanus shot.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin

Emergency Department

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Can tetanus be cured in its early stages?

Whether tetanus can be cured in the early stages depends on the severity of the condition and the individual's constitution. If the tetanus is mild, indicating a lighter infection, treatment might be relatively easier. Through symptomatic treatment and anti-tetanus bacillus therapy, the condition can be alleviated and improved. However, if the tetanus is severe, with persistent convulsions and various complications, treatment becomes more complicated and may lead to death. Therefore, if an injury occurs, proactive measures should be taken to treat the wound to reduce the risk of tetanus infection. Also, within 24 hours, one should go to the hospital to receive tetanus antitoxin or tetanus immunoglobulin to prevent the onset of tetanus.

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General Surgery

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Is tetanus fatal?

Tetanus infection is quite frightening, with current statistics showing that the mortality rate of tetanus infections can be as high as 40%, and about a million people die from tetanus globally each year. The current principle is to promptly inject tetanus antitoxin or tetanus immunoglobulin for sharp, deep wounds. For tetanus infection, the main symptoms manifest as local or systemic muscle rigidity and spasms. The incubation period varies; if a tetanus vaccination has been previously administered, or depending on the infection and treatment of the wound, the severity of the onset can differ. The prodromal period typically presents symptoms like dizziness, headache, heightened reflexes, restlessness, and possible difficulty opening the mouth; during the convulsive phase, there is continuous muscle contraction, eventually causing persistent spasms in the diaphragm and intercostal muscles.

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General Surgery

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How is tetanus diagnosed?

For the diagnosis of tetanus, it mainly relies on relevant medical history and clinical manifestations. In terms of laboratory diagnosis, most cases involve culture of Clostridium tetani from wound tissue or polymerase chain reaction testing. Generally, a positive result can confirm a diagnosis of tetanus, but a negative result does not rule it out. Most laboratories are unable to perform these tests, and even if tetanus antibodies reach a protective level, it does not exclude a diagnosis of tetanus. If the patient has a clear history of injury or animal bites, and presents with symptoms such as lockjaw, a sardonic smile, muscle rigidity, difficulty swallowing, or persistent spasms, tetanus should be considered promptly and relevant treatment initiated.

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Written by Ai Bing Quan

General Surgery

37sec

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A tetanus shot is used for what?

The tetanus shot is a type of vaccine primarily used to prevent infection by the tetanus bacterium. Tetanus bacteria are anaerobic and can typically be found on rusty nails, rusty blades, and other objects that cause cuts. In such cases, an intramuscular injection of tetanus antitoxin is needed to prevent infection by the tetanus bacterium. Although the chances of contracting tetanus are relatively low, the mortality rate is quite high if one does get infected. Therefore, it is crucial to take it seriously to avoid severe adverse consequences.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei

General Surgery

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What should be avoided after a tetanus shot?

Tetanus injections are a common preventive measure in daily life and are generally effective against tetanus bacillus infections. After receiving a tetanus injection, it is necessary to follow a specific diet. Typically, within a week of the injection, it is recommended to avoid spicy and irritating foods, as well as acidic foods. Beverages such as strong tea, coffee, and alcohol should also be avoided as much as possible. Additionally, foods that commonly cause allergic reactions, especially if one is usually allergic to certain foods, should be avoided under these circumstances. This is because if the immune system is weakened, the effectiveness against tetanus bacillus may diminish. Furthermore, it is crucial to get plenty of rest, drink more warm water, consume more fruits and vegetables, avoid strenuous activities, and avoid meat stimulants such as dog and lamb meat, among other considerations.