Red flags & when to go in person for Tetanus Booster Guidance

Audience: adult

Tetanus is a serious infection caused by bacteria entering the body through wounds or cuts. A tetanus booster vaccine helps protect you from this infection, especially if your last dose was over 10 years ago or after certain injuries. Telemedicine can help you understand when you might need a booster and guide you on wound care. However, some situations require in-person care, such as deep or dirty wounds, or signs of infection. Recognizing red flags like increasing pain, swelling, fever, or muscle stiffness is important. This guide helps you know when to seek immediate medical attention and how telemedicine can support your care safely and effectively.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Increasing redness, swelling, or pain around the wound — seek urgent in-person care
• Fever or chills accompanying the wound — get immediate medical evaluation
• Muscle stiffness or spasms, especially jaw tightening — go to emergency services promptly

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing vaccination history and advising on tetanus booster need
• Providing guidance on wound cleaning and general care
• Assessing symptoms to determine if urgent in-person care is needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Administering vaccines or medications
• Performing physical wound cleaning or examination
• Treating severe infections or tetanus symptoms

What is a Tetanus Booster?

A tetanus booster is a vaccine given to protect you from tetanus, a serious infection caused by bacteria found in soil, dust, and animal feces. The booster is usually recommended every 10 years or after certain injuries to keep your protection up to date.

When Do You Need a Booster?

You may need a tetanus booster if you have a wound that is deep, dirty, or caused by something rusty or contaminated. Also, if it has been more than 10 years since your last booster, or if you are unsure about your vaccination history, a booster might be recommended.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:

These signs may indicate infection or early tetanus symptoms.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Through a telemedicine visit, a healthcare provider can:

Telemedicine is convenient for education and initial assessment but cannot replace physical examination when serious concerns exist.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

This information helps your provider give the best advice.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Gather your vaccination records if available
• Clean the wound gently with soap and water before the visit
• Take clear photos of the wound to share with the provider
• Be ready to describe how, when, and where the injury occurred
• Note any symptoms such as pain, swelling, fever, or muscle stiffness

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on wound care and hygiene
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended for vaccination or wound treatment
• Monitor the wound for any worsening signs or new symptoms
• Seek emergency care if red flags develop after the tele-visit
• Keep your vaccination records updated for future reference

FAQs

How often should I get a tetanus booster?

Most adults should get a tetanus booster every 10 years to maintain protection. If you have a deep or dirty wound, you may need a booster sooner.

Can I get a tetanus booster through telemedicine?

Telemedicine can help determine if you need a booster, but the vaccine itself must be given in person by a healthcare provider.

What should I do if I don't know my vaccination history?

If you are unsure about your tetanus vaccinations, your healthcare provider may recommend a booster to be safe, especially after an injury.

When should I go to the emergency room for a wound?

Go to the emergency room if you have increasing pain, redness, swelling, fever, muscle stiffness, or if the wound is large, deep, or caused by a dirty or rusty object.

How do I care for a wound at home?

Clean the wound gently with soap and water, keep it covered with a clean bandage, and watch for signs of infection. Avoid applying any creams or ointments unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Sources

1. Tetanus — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Tetanus Vaccination — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Tetanus: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Tetanus Immunization — World Health Organization (WHO).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have a serious wound or symptoms of infection, seek immediate medical attention.