Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani. This bacterium is commonly found in soil, dust, and animal faeces, and can survive in the environment for long periods.

Tetanus bacteria typically enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts, puncture wounds, burns, or animal bites, particularly those contaminated with dirt, faeces, or saliva. Once inside, the bacteria produce a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to painful muscle stiffness and spasms, often starting in the jaw and neck.

Tetanus is not spread from person to person, making wound care and vaccination the primary means of prevention. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent tetanus infection.

Symptoms of tetanus include jaw cramping (lockjaw), muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, seizures, headache, fever, and increased blood pressure. Symptoms typically appear from a few days to several weeks after infection. Untreated tetanus can be life-threatening.

The protection provided by the tetanus vaccine lasts about 10 years. Booster shots are recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity.

The tetanus vaccine is recommended for everyone, with initial doses typically given in childhood as part of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine. Adults should get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. Those travelling to areas with limited medical care or who are at risk of injury can benefit from ensuring their vaccination is up-to-date.

Vaccinations offer significant individual benefits by boosting the immune system's ability to fight off specific infectious diseases. They reduce the risk of contracting serious illnesses, leading to fewer medical visits and a lower chance of hospitalization.

By staying up-to-date with vaccinations, individuals can also enjoy a greater sense of well-being and freedom to engage in various social activities, knowing they are protected against contagious diseases.

At ATA Medical, we offer a wide range of vaccinations to meet your various health needs, from travel to seasonal immunity, ensuring you are well-protected. Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this allows you to keep a record of the vaccinations.

Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this allows you to keep a record of your vaccinations.

Vaccination	Price*
Tetanus, reduced diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap)	$58.86 / dose

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Please note Tdap vaccine subsidies are available for pregnant ladies under Non-CHAS / CHAS Green, Merdeka Generation (MG) and Pioneer Generation (PG) cardholders. Please enquire with our friendly staff for more information.

Vaccination	Schedule
Tetanus, reduced diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap)	Once every 10 years as an adult

The side effects of the tetanus vaccine are typically mild and may include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, a slight fever, and tiredness. In uncommon cases, more serious reactions can happen, such as an allergic response that might cause difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you experience any severe symptoms, please seek medical help right away.

ATA Medical is conveniently located at three different locations:

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)
• Jurong Clinic (Closest MRT: Jurong East NS1/EW24)

Our vaccination clinics are conveniently located in Central Singapore. Same day appointments for vaccinations are available.

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)
• Jurong Clinic (Closest MRT: Jurong East NS1/EW24)

• Anson Clinic
• Orchard Clinic
• Jurong Clinic