Tetanus is an infection that kills. A woman can get
tetanus when a germ that lives in the stools of people or animals enters her
body through a wound. Although anyone can get tetanus, women and babies are
especially at risk during childbirth. Tetanus can enter the body if an
instrument that is not properly disinfected is put into the womb or used to cut
the babys cord.
All girls and pregnant women should be vaccinated against
tetanus. If a woman is pregnant and has not been vaccinated, she should have an
injection at her first prenatal checkup, and a second injection at least
a month later. Then, if possible, she should follow the rest of the schedule.
Tetanus immunization schedule:
No. 1: at first visit
No. 2: at least 1 month after first injection No.
3: at least 6 months after 2nd injection No. 4: at least 1 year after 3rd
injection No. 5: at least 1 year after 4th injection
Then get an injection every 10 years. |