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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does One Need A Tetanus Shot For A Nail Prick Injury?

Yesterday, I punctured my arm on a nail from removing an old deck. It was not very deep, some bleeding. I licked the wound clean and continued working. After 2 hours I noticed some pain and light swelling. We put on antiseptic and a band aid. I have had tetanus shots in my life, but last one is min 7 years ago, could be 15 years ago. I am 58. The swelling is quite mild , 2 cm diameter around the puncture.
posted on Wed, 18 Oct 2017
Twitter Wed, 21 Feb 2018 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 22 Feb 2018 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
hello,
you have mentioned prick was from nail. was the nail rusted? if yes it has more chnces of causing tetanus. since you are not sure about your last immunization being 7 yrs or 15 yrs ago, i ll suggest you to take tt booster. In such cases if the last immunization has exceeded 10 yrs we usually recommend booster dose.
hope thos helps.
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Does One Need A Tetanus Shot For A Nail Prick Injury?

hello, you have mentioned prick was from nail. was the nail rusted? if yes it has more chnces of causing tetanus. since you are not sure about your last immunization being 7 yrs or 15 yrs ago, i ll suggest you to take tt booster. In such cases if the last immunization has exceeded 10 yrs we usually recommend booster dose. hope thos helps.