Tetanus Vaccination
The tetanus vaccination protects against tetanus bacteria, which can cause life-threatening cramps after wounds. Refreshment every 10 years is essential.
- STIKO-recommended
- ~30 min incl. observation
What is tetanus?
Behind it lies what's known as lockjaw. This is an infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which occurs worldwide. The bacterium hides in the soil, and even small wounds, scratches, or punctures with a splinter or thorn are enough for the bacterium to enter your body. The toxins released by the bacterium cause severe muscle cramps and paralysis by damaging muscle-controlling nerve cells. The facial muscles are typically affected first. If the toxin reaches the muscles of the larynx or chest, it can lead to death by suffocation. Even though tetanus disease is extremely rare in Germany thanks to high vaccination rates, vaccination protection is worthwhile. Because the source of infection is everywhere.
WHO IT'S FOR
Who Needs This Vaccination?
This vaccination is relevant for every age group. Building up immunity against tetanus (primary immunisation) is generally carried out in childhood.
Booster vaccinations for adults who have completed their primary immunisation should take place every 10 years, and potentially sooner following an injury. These are usually administered in combination with diphtheria, and where appropriate also with pertussis and polio.
VACCINATION SCHEDULE
How the Vaccination Works
The tetanus vaccine is an inactivated vaccine and is usually administered as a combination vaccine. The injection is given into the upper arm muscle.
The vaccine is well tolerated. It is very common for the body's immune response to cause redness or swelling at the injection site, which may also be painful. Rarely, general symptoms such as a rise in temperature, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, or gastrointestinal complaints may occur during the first three days after vaccination. Such vaccination reactions generally subside within one to three days.
NEXT STEPS
What You Can Do Now
To check whether you have existing immunity, simply book an appointment for a vaccination status review at one of our avi practices and discuss this with our medical team. They will advise you in detail on whether you are already protected or whether you should receive a vaccination. The doctors will also assess whether there are any further vaccinations that would be beneficial for you and, if appropriate, administer these directly.
VACCINATION PROCESS
How the Vaccination Works
We provide comprehensive information about the vaccination and are available for all your questions.
- 1
Information Consultation
We inform you about the vaccination, possible side effects, and answer all your questions.
~10 min
- 2
History & Vaccination Advice
We review your vaccination status, pre-existing conditions, and allergies to ensure safe administration.
~5 min
- 3
Vaccination
The vaccination is administered with minimal pain into the upper arm muscle.
~2 min
- 4
Observation Period
You stay in the practice briefly for safety so we can react immediately to rare immediate reactions.
~15 min
PREPARATION & AFTERCARE
Preparation & Aftercare
Before the appointment
Bring your vaccination record
So we can verify your vaccination status and document the new vaccination.
Clarify acute illnesses
We postpone vaccination in case of fever or acute infections. Please let us know in advance.
After the appointment
Take it easy
Avoid intense physical exertion and sports for 1-2 days.
Normal reactions
Local redness, swelling, or mild fever are normal and usually subside within 1-3 days.
Report severe symptoms
For shortness of breath, circulatory problems, or persistent high fever, contact a doctor immediately.
Side effects
Costs & insurance
Covered by statutory insurance
Standard coverage for all statutory health insurance members.
Private / self-pay
from €39