• Reference Number: HEY885/2025
• Departments: Emergency Department
• Last Updated: 25 November 2025

Patient Information Leaflet

This advice sheet has been produced to give you information about tetanus.  It is not meant to replace discussion between you and your doctor.  If after reading this and you require further explanation, please discuss this with the relevant person who has been caring for you.

Tetanus is a serious, life-threatening condition caused by bacteria getting into a wound. It’s rare in the UK because the tetanus vaccine has been part of the routine vaccination schedule for many years.

You are covered for tetanus if you have received all your childhood three vaccinations followed by two boosters.

You are not covered for tetanus if:

• You have been given only a booster
• You need to return to your GP to complete the course
• You have been given Human Anti-Tetanus immunoglobulin

Check with your GP surgery if you’re not sure you’ve been fully vaccinated against tetanus.

The Department of Health advise routine tetanus vaccinations are combined with a small dose of Diphtheria and Polio vaccinations. If you required a booster, you would have been given a vaccination call Revaxis, which contains anti-tetanus, Diphtheria and inactivated Polio.

Should you require further advice on the issues contained in this advice sheet, please do not hesitate to contact the Emergency Department.