Tetanus Vaccination
Vaccines are available that help prevent tetanus, an infection caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria. Four kinds of vaccines used in the United States today help protect against tetanus, all of which also provide protection against other diseases:
- Diphtheria and tetanus (DT) vaccines
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccines
- Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccines
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines
Babies and children younger than 7 years old receive DTaP or DT, while older children and adults receive Tdap and Td.
CDC recommends tetanus vaccination for all babies and children, preteens and teens, and adults. Talk with your or your child’s doctor if you have questions about tetanus vaccines.
What Everyone Should Know
Information for Healthcare Professionals
CDC recommends tetanus vaccination for:
- Young children
- Preteens
- Adults
Related Pages
- CDC’s Tetanus Website
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough Vaccine Information Statements
- DTaP (English / Other Languages)
- Td (English / Other Languages)
- Tdap (English / Other Languages)
- Photos of Tetanus Bacteria and People Affected by Tetanus
Warning: Some of these photos are graphic.
Page last reviewed: September 6, 2022
Content source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases