Tetanus vaccination

A tetanus vaccination is given as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme .

The full course of the vaccination requires five injections, usuallygiven on the following schedule:

  • the first three doses are given as part of the 5-in-1 vaccine for babies at eight, 12 and 16 weeks
  • a booster dose is given as part of the 4-in-1 pre-school booster at three years and four monthsof age
  • a final booster is given as part of the 3-in-1 teenager booster at 14 years of age

This course of five injections should provide long-lasting protection against tetanus.However, if you or your child has a deep or dirty wound, it's best to get medical advice.

If you're not sure whether you've had the full vaccination course, contact your GP surgery for advice. It is possible to fully vaccinate older children and adults who weren't vaccinated when they were younger.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018