A wound or injury to the skin, no matter how small, can create an environment for tetanus bacteria to enter the body. This is why it’s crucial to vaccinate children immediately with a tetanus vaccine and anti-tetanus serum if their vaccination history is unclear and they have a wound as described. The vaccination schedule for tetanus depends on the child’s age and previous vaccination history. If a child has never received a tetanus vaccine, they will be given three doses. These doses are then repeated every 10 years to maintain immunity.
Delaying vaccination can decrease the effectiveness of disease prevention. It’s important to note that even proper wound treatment cannot completely prevent infection. In cases where a child steps on a spike and the wound is deep and bleeding, the doctor may recommend an additional injection of tetanus serum along with the scheduled vaccination. However, if a child has already been fully vaccinated against tetanus according to their age, they may only need a repeat dose of the vaccine when they have a large, dirty wound without requiring the tetanus antitoxin serum injection.
Vietnam offers single or combined tetanus vaccines that can also protect against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and polio. It’s crucial to ensure that children receive all recommended doses of these vaccines to protect them from serious diseases like tetanus.
