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Is Tetanus Immunisation Required For Travel?

Posted on Fri, 2 May 2014

Question: I am a healthy 70 year old take no medications except restasis. 40 years ago and as a child was immunized for tetanus and about 13 years ago had a tetanus booster. I am travelling to Morocco inthree weeks. Do I need the Tdap or a booster tetanus shot? Will it be effective given my time frame for travelling?

Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (56 minutes later)

Brief Answer: may not need it Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Tetanus immunisation is normally not one of the standard immunisations required for travel. Normally the immunity after 5 doses (normally at least 3 to 4 given in childhood), an adult has a high level of immunity but if you are travelling to an area where you may not be able to obtain medical attention for a wound if needed then it should be considered. Boosters last up to 10 years If medical care, should you get a wound, is available and you know where you can receive assistance then it is not necessary. I hope this helps,feel free to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Michelle Gibson James (21 minutes later)

If i get a shot, must I take the Tdap shot or can i get a booster tetanus shot without any thing else for protection in case of a wound?

Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (5 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Td shot Detailed Answer: Hi You should consider the Td shot . This is the tetanus booster, it contains a mixture of immunisation against tetanus and diptheria Please feel free to ask anything else

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Michelle Gibson James (35 minutes later)

So there is no sho of tetanus alone for adults?

Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer: there is an immune globulin Detailed Answer: Hi There is a tetanus immune globulin that contains only tetanus, it is different from the vaccine but this is only given if there is a suspicion of tetanus. For adults the Td is given as the booster vaccine.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar