Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

Tetanus Vaccine

Tetanus Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Tetanus

Tetanus is introduced into the body through a puncture wound such as a laceration, burn or scratch. Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by bacteria called Clostridium tetani and is present as spores in soil and manure. Tetanus spores are found throughout the world. Vaccination is recommended at least every 10 years.

Vaccination Pricing

£39 Per dose
£39 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

  • Spasms involving skeletal muscles. Lock-jaw and a stiff neck are common

  • Abnormal breathing

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Death occurs in 10-20% of cases

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

231 Worcester Road, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

worcesterravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

153 Ombersley Road, Worcester, WR3 7BX

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
6 – 85 1** – Up to day before* See specialist pharmacist

*Vaccine at its most effective when given more time to become active. If given up to the day before travel, some immunity will be provided for your trip.
**Children who have have already been immunised with the NHS childhood vaccination program

Tetanus is a serious but preventable disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which produces a powerful neurotoxin that affects the nervous system. Unlike many other infections, tetanus is not spread from person to person but occurs when the bacteria enter the body through a wound or break in the skin. Once inside, the bacteria release toxins that interfere with the normal functioning of nerves, leading to painful muscle stiffness and spasms. In severe cases, tetanus can result in difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, and even death. While rare in the UK due to widespread vaccination, tetanus remains a global threat, especially in areas with limited access to immunisation and proper wound care. Prompt medical treatment and vaccination are essential to prevent and manage this potentially life-threatening illness.

Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in soil, dust, and animal faeces, and can enter the body through cuts, puncture wounds, burns, or even minor injuries such as insect bites or scratches if not cleaned properly. Unlike viral infections, tetanus cannot be transmitted from person to person. Because the bacteria are so widespread in the environment, the best way to prevent tetanus is through routine immunisation. In the UK, the tetanus vaccine is part of the NHS childhood vaccination schedule and is usually given as part of a combined vaccine that also protects against diphtheria and polio. Adults may require booster doses if they are injured or travelling to high-risk areas. Proper wound cleaning and seeking medical advice after injuries are also important steps in preventing infection.

The tetanus vaccine provides excellent protection when given as part of a full five-dose immunisation schedule, usually completed during childhood and adolescence in the UK. Once this course is completed, protection typically lasts for at least 10 years. However, a booster dose may be recommended if you sustain a wound that could be at risk of infection and it has been more than 10 years since your last dose. People travelling to countries where access to emergency medical care is limited, or where tetanus is more common, may also be advised to have a booster if it has been over a decade since their last vaccination. Keeping your vaccination record up to date is a simple and effective way to stay protected.

Symptoms of tetanus usually appear between 4 and 21 days after exposure to the bacteria, with most cases occurring within 10 days. The earliest signs include stiffness in the jaw muscles (often referred to as “lockjaw”) as well as difficulty swallowing and muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders. As the disease progresses, painful muscle spasms may develop throughout the body, particularly in the abdomen, back, and limbs. In severe cases, spasms can affect breathing and result in life-threatening complications. Unlike many infections, tetanus does not cause a fever, and because it affects the nervous system, symptoms can become severe quickly. Immediate medical attention is required to manage the effects of the toxin and prevent complications.

Tetanus is present worldwide, so the vaccine is generally recommended for all travellers regardless of their destination. It is especially important for people travelling to rural or remote areas in developing countries where access to prompt medical care may be limited and where injuries are more likely to occur during activities such as trekking, farming, or volunteering. Some countries also require up-to-date tetanus vaccination as part of occupational health regulations, especially for those working in healthcare or humanitarian aid. If it has been more than 10 years since your last booster, or if you cannot confirm your vaccination history, a booster dose is advisable before travel.

TTTThe tetanus vaccine is generally safe and well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. Common reactions include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, as well as low-grade fever, headache, or tiredness for a day or two following the injection. Occasionally, some people may experience more pronounced arm soreness or swelling. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. The vaccine is often given in combination with diphtheria and polio protection, so any side effects may be due to one or more components of the combined vaccine. Despite minor discomfort, the vaccine offers essential protection against a potentially life-threatening disease and is a key part of routine and travel-related health care.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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The Malvern Travel Clinic offers a wide range of vaccines and travel vaccinations.

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Same Day Appointments

We are pleased to offer same-day appointments at Malvern Travel Clinic, to ensure you receive prompt and efficient care when you need it most.

Expert Pharmacists

Our team includes expert pharmacists who are dedicated to providing you with personalised and professional healthcare advice.

Competitive Pricing

We offer competitive pricing on our vaccinations to ensure that essential healthcare is both affordable and accessible to everyone.

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