Tetanus shots are being administered to dozens of people in the Omaha metro area at a clinic opened by Douglas County health officials following last week’s storm. Nearly 100 doses have been given out so far, with clinic supervisor Molly Elston expressing surprise and gratitude at the turnout. She emphasized the importance of staying up to date on tetanus vaccinations, as it can help prevent the rare disease.
Elston explained that tetanus vaccines should be received every ten years, with an update within five years for those with dirty wounds like cuts or scrapes sustained during storm cleanup. Tetanus spores are commonly found in soil and can enter the body through broken skin, causing the bacteria to spread. Anyone who suffers an injury while cleaning up from the storm is advised to seek medical attention within 48 hours.
For those unsure of their tetanus vaccination status, the Nebraska State Immunization Information System can provide assistance. While the free clinic was initially scheduled to end on Thursday, county officials will assess the need and decide whether to extend its operation. Stay informed with the latest news from 6 News by signing up for email alerts. Copyright 2024 WOWT. All rights reserved.
