Officials from the NDSU Student Health Service and the State Health Department say that floodwaters will not increase your risk for tetanus, and vaccines are not necessary unless dealing with contaminated water or flood cleanup.
Barb Lonbaken, dean for student wellness, says NDSU Student Health Service will provide tetanus booster shots for students. “You don’t need to take time to get a tetanus shot right now if you are dealing with the floodwaters,” she said.
During flood cleanup, when the risk of wounds increases, workers will need to be up-to-date with their tetanus vaccination. Adults need a tetanus booster shot every 10 years.
Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) shots or tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) shots can be used. Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough) vaccinations instead of tetanus and diphtheria vaccinations are recommended for one tetanus booster during adulthood to maintain protection against pertussis.
Students can make an appointment for a tetanus booster shot by calling Student Health Service at 1-7331. Fargo Cass Public Health also has scheduled tetanus shot clinics today through Friday, March 27, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Fargodome and Hope Lutheran Church, 3636 25th St. S., Fargo. The cost is $40 and Blue Cross Blue Shield will be accepted for adults.
March 24, 2009