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Is Tetanus Shot Required After Being Scratched By A Dog Which Is Fully Vaccinated?

Posted on Thu, 16 Dec 2021

Question: Hi docter I was at my neighbours house 2 days ago and his 6 months old puppy scratch me at the back of the leg I could see no visible blood from the search only the scratch itself I ask my neighbour was the puppy vacinatted he said yes fully. When I got home I washed the scratch with alcohol solution .do you think I would need a tetanus I will need go to the hospital for that thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You should apply a tetanus immunoglobulin if you have more than 5 years from tetanus vaccination .

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

I have carefully read your history (having even just a dog scratch), you should know that if you have more than 5 years that have done a tetanus vaccination you should apply a tetanus immunoglobulin.
It is a good news that the dog is fully vaccinated and this means that you don't need to apply a anti-rabies vaccination.

I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (1 hour later)

Hi docter would it be ok to get the tetanous done on Saturday as im no where near a hospital and I called a docter here in the area that have my house and he said al have to go to the main city to get it done.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
you must apply within approximately 72 hours of exposure.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

You must apply within approximately 72 hours of exposure.

I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (13 hours later)

Hi docter I called a clinic to get a shot I can't get one as you said they said afther 72 hours so basically I'm in big trouble now anything could happen in the next days ahead what's my best plan off attack from here on what do you think I can do to help myself now I'm a healthy man now this tetnuas could cause me serious problems.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (23 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please don't worry !

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

Based on your history, just having a scratch without blood there exist a low risk to get tetanous.
Tetanous immunoglobulin should be applyed just as prevention but this doesn't mean that you are in high risk if you cannot apply.

I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (3 hours later)

Hi docter I'm getting tetnuas shot on Saturday in the city hospital i have booked appointment even if it won't be any help in this incident al try just to be protected from now on.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (27 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You should take Tetanus vaccination.

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

You should take a Tetanus vaccination after this incident, to get a longer protection, approximately 5-10 years.

I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.

Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee