Tetanus is a serious disease that can occur when bacteria enter the body through an open wound or injury to the skin. Children with a wound, such as a car tire burn, a car fall, stepping on a nail, or a thorn prick, are at risk of developing tetanus. Even minor scratches can increase the risk of infection. Proper wound treatment can reduce the entry of bacteria into the body, but it does not completely prevent infection. If a child has an unclear vaccination history and a wound as described, it is essential to immediately vaccinate them with a tetanus vaccine and anti-tetanus serum.
The vaccination schedule for tetanus depends on the child’s age and previous vaccination history. A child who has never received a tetanus vaccine will be given three doses. The first dose is administered at their first injection, the second dose is given one month after the first dose, and the third dose is given six months after the second dose. These doses are then repeated every 10 years to maintain immunity. The vaccine is up to 95% effective in preventing tetanus if given in full doses and on schedule. In cases where a child steps on a spike and the wound is deep and bleeding, doctors may recommend an additional injection of tetanus serum along with the scheduled vaccination. If they have 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 an antitoxin serum injection. Vietnam offers single or combined tetanus vaccines that can also protect against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, and polio.
