Can you get tetanus from a shallow scratch?

Tetanus bacteria are common in soil, dust, and manure. The tetanus bacteria can infect a person even through a tiny scratch. But you’re more likely to get tetanus through deep punctures from wounds created by nails or knives.

Do I need to get a tetanus shot if I step on a nail?

A minor nail puncture may not require a visit to your doctor. But, if the nail or wound was dirty or the puncture is deep, you should see your doctor or visit urgent care. They’ll likely give you a tetanus booster shot if you haven’t had one in the past 5 years.

Should I get a tetanus shot if I stepped on a nail?

Does Walgreens give tetanus?

CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, and other chains and some independent pharmacies offer more than the flu shot—they typically also administer other immunizations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including vaccines against pneumonia, polio, shingles, Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis).

Do I need a tetanus shot for stepping on a nail?

Q: I stepped on a nail and am wondering if I need a tetanus shot. My last shot was 5 years ago. A: You should probably get a tetanus shot in this case. Tetanus vaccines are given to children in the USA with a series of 5 childhood shots called the DTaP.

What happens if you step on a nail and bleed?

Stepping on a nail causes a puncture wound, which often looks like a small hole in the foot. It may not bleed as much as a cut, but due to the risk of infection, this type of wound often requires medical attention. A person can reduce the risk of complications with first aid.

Can you get tetanus from a rusty nail?

Rusty nails do not cause tetanus themselves, but they often occupy dirty or dusty areas that harbor Clostridium tetani, the bacteria that cause tetanus. Stepping on a nail can spread this bacteria to humans. Wounds are the most common way people get tetanus.

Can you get tetanus from a puncture wound?

Puncture wounds from objects like nails and bites are most susceptible to infection with tetanus. However, you can also get tetanus from any exposure to soil, including minor cuts, scrapes, and burns, and sometimes with no injury at all.