$Unique_ID{BRK01298}
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$Title{Why the Sudden Push for Extra Tetanus Immunizations?}
$Subject{immunization tetanus shot aging infections immunizations injection
lockjaw bacteria cut scratch infection shots injections age }
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Why the Sudden Push for Extra Tetanus Immunizations?


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QUESTION:  I was just a bit astonished when during a routine visit to my
doctor, I was required to have a tetanus shot.  I am now in my middle 50's and
have been made to have this injection since my college days.  Why the sudden
push for extra immunizations?  Are they truly necessary?

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ANSWER:  There are some who know about such things that would say your doctor
deserves recognition rather than a rap, for he is actually doing what doctors
should do most, practicing preventive medicine.  Tetanus (or lockjaw) is a
frightful disease, easy to catch since the spores of the bacteria can be found
most anywhere.  It doesn't take a major injury to expose you to infection,
since a cut or scratch, or even dental surgery, can lead to tetanus.  The
Centers for Disease Control recommend that adults have a booster doses every
10 years, after the initial immunization schedule of three injections.  Many
doctors use the schedule of 25 years old, 35 years old etc. to keep track, so
I guess that makes you 55 years old.  And if you keep seeing this informed
physician, you can look forward to another booster at age 65.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.