What happens if you don t get a tetanus shot after a dog scratch
Tetanus
Overview
Tetanus is a serious disease of the nervous system caused by a toxin-producing bacterium. The disease causes muscle contractions, particularly of your jaw and neck muscles. Tetanus is commonly known as lockjaw.
Severe complications of tetanus can be life-threatening. There's no cure for tetanus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications until the effects of the tetanus toxin resolve.
Because of the widespread use of vaccines, cases of tetanus are rare in the United States and other parts of the developed world. The disease remains a threat to people who aren't up to date on their vaccinations. It's more common in developing countries.
Symptoms
The average time from infection to appearance of signs and symptoms (incubation period) is 10 days. The incubation period can range from 3 to 21 days.
The most common type of tetanus is called generalized tetanus. Signs and symptoms begin gradually and then progressively worsen over two weeks. They usually start at the jaw and progress downward on the body.
Signs and symptoms of generalized tetanus include:
- Painful muscle spasms and stiff, immovable muscles (muscle rigidity) in your jaw
- Tension of muscles around your lips, sometimes producing a persistent grin
- Painful spasms and rigidity in your neck muscles
- Difficulty swallowing
- Rigid abdominal muscles
Progression of tetanus results in repeated painful, seizure-like spasms that last for several minutes (generalized spasms). Usually, the neck and back arch, the legs become rigid, the arms are drawn up to the body, and the fists are clenched. Muscle rigidity in the neck and abdomen may cause breathing difficulties.
These severe spasms may be triggered by minor events that stimulate the senses a loud sound, a physical touch, a draft or light.
As the disease progresses, other signs and symptoms may include:
- High blood pressure
- Low blood pressure
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever
- Extreme sweating
Localized tetanus
This uncommon form of tetanus results in muscles spasms near the site of a wound. While it's usually a less severe form of disease, it can progress to generalized tetanus.
Cephalic tetanus
This rare form of tetanus results from a head wound. It results in weakened muscles in the face and spasms of the jaw muscles. It also can progress to generalized tetanus.
When to see a doctor
Tetanus is a life-threatening disease. If you have signs or symptoms of tetanus, seek emergency care.
If you have a simple, clean wound and you've had a tetanus shot within 10 years you can care for your wound at home.
Seek medical care in the following cases:
- You've not had a tetanus shot within 10 years.
- You are unsure of when you last had a tetanus shot.
- You have a puncture wound, a foreign object in your wound, an animal bite or a deep cut.
- Your wound is contaminated with dirt, soil, feces, rust or saliva or you have any doubt about whether you've cleaned a wound sufficiently after such exposure. Contaminated wounds require a vaccination booster if it's been five or more years since your last tetanus shot.
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Causes
The bacterium that causes tetanus is called Clostridium tetani. The bacterium can survive in a dormant state in soil and animal feces. It's essentially shut down until it discovers a place to thrive.
When the dormant bacteria enter a wound a condition good for growth the cells are "awakened." As they are growing and dividing, they release a toxin called tetanospasmin. The toxin impairs the nerves in the body that control muscles.
Risk factors
The greatest risk factor for tetanus infection is not being vaccinated or not keeping up with the 10-year booster shots.
Other factors that increase the risk of tetanus infection are:
- Cuts or wounds exposed to soil or manure
- A foreign body in a wound, such as a nail or splinter
- A history of immune-suppressing medical conditions
- Infected skin lesions in people living with diabetes
- An infected umbilical cord when a mother isn't fully vaccinated
- Shared and unsanitary needles for illegal drug use
Complications
Complications of tetanus infection may include:
- Breathing problems. Life-threatening breathing problems can occur from tightening of the vocal cords and muscle rigidity in the neck and abdomen, especially during a generalized spasm.
- Blockage of a lung artery (pulmonary embolism). A blood clot that has traveled from elsewhere in your body can block the main artery of the lung or one of its branches.
- Pneumonia. A lung infection caused by accidentally inhaling something into the lungs (aspiration pneumonia) may be a complication of generalized spasms.
- Broken bones. Generalized spasms may cause fractures of the spine or other bones.
- Death. Death from tetanus is often caused by a blocked airway during spasms or damage to the nerves that regulate breathing, heart rate or other organ functions.
Prevention
You can prevent tetanus by being vaccinated.
Vaccination for children
The tetanus vaccine is given to children as part of the diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and acellular pertussis vaccine (DTaP). Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection of the nose and throat. Acellular pertussis, also called whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection.
Children who do not tolerate the pertussis vaccine may receive the alternative vaccine called DT.
The DTaP is a series of five shots typically given in the arm or thigh to children at ages:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 15 to 18 months
- 4 to 6 years
Vaccination for children ages 7 to 18
A booster shot is recommended for children at age 11 or 12. This booster is called the Tdap vaccine. If your child didn't get a booster shot as this age, talk to your doctor about appropriate options.
Vaccination for adults age 19 and older
A booster shot is recommended for adults once every 10 years. This may be one of two vaccines, Tdap or Td. If you weren't vaccinated against tetanus as a child or are unsure about your vaccination status, see your doctor about getting the Tdap vaccine.
Vaccination during pregnancy
A booster is recommended during the third trimester of a pregnancy, regardless of the mother's vaccination schedule.
Other recommendations
- Ask your doctor to review your vaccination status regularly.
- Check whether you are current on your vaccination schedule if you are planning international travel.
Dec. 21, 2023
Is a tetanus shot necessary after being scratched by a dog?
Introduction: Tetanus Shot and Dog Scratches
Getting scratched by a dog can be a painful and scary experience. Apart from the pain, it is important to consider the possibility of tetanus infection. Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and can be fatal if left untreated. One of the most effective ways to prevent tetanus infection is by getting a tetanus shot. However, not all dog scratches require a tetanus shot, and it is important to understand when it is necessary.
Understanding Tetanus and Its Causes
Tetanus is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. The bacteria can enter the body through a wound or scratch, and produces a toxin that affects the nervous system. Tetanus is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person. The bacteria can survive for a long time in soil and animal feces, making it common in rural areas.
How Tetanus Spreads in the Body
Tetanus bacteria enter the body through a wound or scratch and produce a toxin that affects the nervous system. The toxin causes muscle stiffness and spasms, which can be fatal if left untreated. The bacteria do not spread from person to person, and a tetanus infection does not provide immunity to future infections.
What Happens When a Dog Scratches You?
When a dog scratches you, the skin is broken, which can allow bacteria to enter the body. The severity of the scratch and the likelihood of tetanus infection depends on several factors, including the depth of the wound, the location of the wound, and the cleanliness of the wound. If the wound is deep, in a high-risk area such as the head or neck, or if the dog has not been vaccinated against tetanus, the risk of infection is higher.
The Risk of Tetanus Infection from Dog Scratches
The risk of tetanus infection from a dog scratch is relatively low, but it is still important to take precautions. If the wound is deep or contaminated with dirt or animal feces, the risk is higher. The risk is also higher if the dog has not been vaccinated against tetanus. It is important to clean the wound thoroughly and monitor it for signs of infection.
Symptoms of Tetanus Infection
Symptoms of tetanus infection may include muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain, particularly in the jaw and neck. Other symptoms may include fever, sweating, and rapid heartbeat. If left untreated, tetanus infection can be fatal.
Treatment for Tetanus Infection
Treatment for tetanus infection typically involves a combination of antibiotics and antitoxins to stop the spread of the bacteria and neutralize the toxin. In severe cases, the patient may require hospitalization and respiratory support.
How to Prevent Tetanus Infection after a Dog Scratch
The best way to prevent tetanus infection after a dog scratch is to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. If the wound is deep or contaminated, it may be necessary to seek medical attention. It is also important to ensure that the dog is vaccinated against tetanus.
When to Get a Tetanus Shot after a Dog Scratch
If you have not had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years or cannot remember when your last shot was, it is recommended to get a tetanus shot after a dog scratch. If the wound is deep or contaminated, it is important to seek medical attention and follow the advice of a healthcare professional.
What to Expect During a Tetanus Shot
A tetanus shot involves injecting a vaccine that contains a small amount of the tetanus toxin. The vaccine helps the body build immunity to the toxin and can prevent tetanus infection. The shot is typically given in the upper arm and may cause some discomfort or soreness.
Risks and Side Effects of Tetanus Shot
Like all vaccines, there is a risk of side effects with a tetanus shot. Common side effects may include soreness, redness, and swelling at the injection site. More serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions.
Conclusion: Tetanus Shot and Dog Scratches
Getting a tetanus shot after a dog scratch is an important precaution to take to prevent tetanus infection. While the risk of infection is relatively low, it is important to understand the risks and take steps to prevent infection. If you are unsure whether you need a tetanus shot after a dog scratch, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Health Risks of a Dog Scratch
Dogs are among the most popular animal companions. In fact, its estimated that dogs live in about
Still, as with having any other pet, its important to be aware of the variety of diseases and health risks that may be transmitted from your canine companion. Some of these health risks may be derived from dog scratches that arise from playing, feeding, and coming into contact with an unknown animal.
Not all dog scratches are serious, but its important to be on the lookout for possible signs of infection, and call a doctor to rule out more serious health consequences.
Read on to learn about possible health risks from dog scratches and how to treat and prevent them.
Daily interactions with your dog including playtime can sometimes result in scratches. These might occur from your dogs nails when they step on you or jump up on you, as well as accidentally scratching you with their teeth while playing fetch or during feedings.
When you get scratched by a dog, you may notice red marks on your skin. These may temporarily become painful and swollen and, in more severe cases, lead to more serious health risks. Possibilities may include:
- excessive bleeding
- infections, such as Capnocytophaga bacteria
- tetanus, which is caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria
- rabies, a serious viral infection
- sepsis, a life-threatening emergency caused by the spread of an infection to vital organs
Any dog scratch including those that seem mild and harmless ought to be treated immediately to prevent infection and other health complications. Consider the following steps:
- First, wash (but dont scrub) the dog scratch wound with warm water and soap. Rinse for at least 5 minutes. Pat dry with a clean towel.
- If the dog scratch is bleeding, apply pressure to the area with a clean gauze pad.
- Apply an over-the-counter (OTC) antibiotic cream or ointment.
- Cover the wound with a sterile bandage.
Some dogs carry a bacteria in their mouths called Capnocytophaga. While these bacteria
Capnocytophaga infections can progress quickly, even becoming life-threatening. Possible symptoms
- swelling
- redness and blisters
- pus from the bite
- fever
- headache
- muscle or joint aches
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- vomiting
Call or visit a doctor if youre experiencing any signs of infection post-dog scratch. Its also a good idea to seek medical attention any time youve been scratched by a dog especially if the dog isnt your own.
Rabies is a type of viral infection that can occur when bitten by an animal thats infected. This is a serious infection that can be fatal in both animals and humans, due to the viruss attack on the nervous system.
While animal-to-animal transmission is possible, its not as common for humans to be infected by household pets in the United States. Part of this reduced risk is attributed to rabies vaccines in domesticated animals.
Still, rabies ought to be considered in the case of a serious wound from a dog, particularly if its a stray dog or one who hasnt been vaccinated against rabies. The virus may be transmitted through an infected dogs saliva from biting or accidental scratching.
How a dog with rabies may behave
A dog who is infected with rabies may have
- behavioral changes
- reduced appetite
- voice changes/changes to their barks
- panting
- anxiety and restlessness
- attempted attacks on people and other animals
- paralysis
What to do if you suspect youve been bitted by a dog with rabies
If youve been bitten or scratched by a dog with an unknown rabies vaccination status, call a doctor. They may recommend treatment with rabies vaccines as well as antibodies.
Humans (with the exception of veterinarians and other professionals who handle animals) dont typically get the rabies vaccine unless theyve been exposed to the virus from an infected animal.
Symptoms of a rabies infection
Symptoms of rabies are slow to develop,
Possible signs of rabies in humans may include:
- fatigue
- fever
- headache
- weakness
- anxiety
- hallucinations, and other neurological changes
While its not always possible to avoid all cases of dog scratches, you may help minimize your risk of getting sick by:
- washing your hands after playing with and feeding your dog
- carefully washing scratches that do occur
- bandaging dog scratches and any subsequent open wounds
- keeping your dog up-to-date on their vaccines
- avoiding contact with other dogs that may be feral or unvaccinated
- walking your dog on a leash to prevent exposure to wild animals
- asking your doctor if youre up to date on your vaccines
Also, if you have your own dog, you may help reduce the risk of scratches from toenails and bites by training your dog not to jump up on you, and to use their mouths softly during playtime and feedings.
Getting scratched by your dog can happen, especially during feeding and playtime. While you can train your dog to be more gentle, occasional scratches are still inevitable. Your risk may also be greater when coming into contact with a wild dog, or a domesticated one whos not your own.
Washing a dog scratch wound is critical in preventing infections. Depending on the severity of the wound, you may consider calling your doctor regarding next steps.
Seek medical care if youre injured by a dog who isnt yours, if youve been bitten, are bleeding excessively, or are experiencing flu-like symptoms.
