(WKYT) Health officials are reminding Kentuckians to check their tetanus vaccination status as communities continue cleaning up after weeks of severe weather, flooding and storm damage.
From fallen trees and flood debris to damaged homes and cleanup projects, many people have spent the past several weeks clearing storm damage. Health officials said outdoor cleanup work can increase the risk of exposure to tetanus.
“We don’t want tetanus to increase, and want people to get their tetanus vaccines especially with the cleanup and debris that we are seeing with the bad weather,” retired physician Jeff Fox said.
Tetanus is caused by bacteria commonly found in soil, dust and animal manure. The bacteria can enter the body through cuts, puncture wounds or other breaks in the skin.
Vaccination guidance
Health officials said even a small cut can create an opportunity for tetanus bacteria to enter the body. They recommend making sure vaccinations are up to date before tackling cleanup projects.
Doctors recommend adults receive a tetanus booster every 10 years. However, people who suffer a deep or dirty wound may need another booster sooner if it has been more than five years since their last shot.
“That vaccine schedule is actually once every 10 years,” said Cassie Prather, public health director for the Woodford County Health Department. “And that’s if you don’t have any type of injury. But if you do sustain an injury and your doctor recommends you get that updated, even if you have had that vaccine in 10 years, you may be asked to repeat that for the extra protection.”
Cleanup safety
Health experts said floodwaters and storm debris can create risks because people may not know what is contaminated.
“Because you never know what’s exactly contaminated,” Prather said. “Flood waters definitely are but you don’t know what’s all in there. Those waters can come into contact with anything, and oftentimes you can’t see and you can come injured very easily.”
Symptoms can include muscle stiffness, jaw cramping, painful muscle spasms and difficulty swallowing.
Health experts said the best protection is staying up to date on vaccinations and wearing gloves, sturdy shoes and protective clothing while cleaning up storm debris.
“With the tetanus shot, it is one of the most effective vaccines out there,” Prather said. “So, follow up with your physician and follow up with your pharmacist to get the details of the specific vaccine.”
Officials said people who are unsure when they last received a tetanus shot should check with their health care provider.