avi medical
    Prevention & Vaccinations

    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
    • Incl. observation at the practice

    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 it works at avi

    We provide comprehensive information about the vaccination and are available for all your questions.

    1. 1

      Information Consultation

      We inform you about the vaccination, possible side effects, and answer all your questions.

    2. 2

      History & Vaccination Advice

      We review your vaccination status, pre-existing conditions, and allergies to ensure safe administration.

    3. 3

      Vaccination

      The vaccination is administered with minimal pain into the upper arm muscle.

    4. 4

      Observation Period

      You stay in the practice briefly for safety so we can react immediately to rare immediate reactions.

    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

    Redness, swelling, warmth, or mild pain at the injection site. Usually subside within 1-2 days.

    Fatigue, headache, mild muscle aches, or low-grade fever. Usually mild and short-lived.

    In very rare cases, allergic reactions to vaccine components may occur. This is why post-vaccination observation takes place in our practice.

    Severe immediate reactions are extremely rare. We are prepared in our practice and can react immediately.

    Costs & insurance

    Covered by statutory insurance

    Standard coverage for all statutory health insurance members.

    Private / self-pay

    from €39

    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions: Tetanus Vaccination

    Every ten years if you completed the primary course as a child. The booster is usually a combination vaccine with diphtheria, and once also with whooping cough. Your vaccination record shows when you had your last one.

    Have your vaccination status checked by a doctor promptly, ideally with your vaccination record. Whether you need a vaccination depends on the wound and your last dose: for deep or dirty wounds, a booster is given if your last vaccination was more than five years ago. If your status is unclear, an immunoglobulin may also be needed. For serious injuries, go straight to the emergency department.

    First ask your previous GP practices, as your vaccinations are often documented there. If nothing can be found, we discuss with you how to safely rebuild your protection. We are happy to issue you a new vaccination record.

    Yes. Tetanus is a standard vaccination recommended by STIKO, so statutory health insurance covers the cost. If you pay yourself, it costs from €39 at avi.