Tetanus Vaccination
Vaccines are available that help prevent tetanus, an infection caused by Clostridium tetani bacteria. Three kinds of vaccines used in the United States today help protect against tetanus, all of which also provide protection against other diseases:
- Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP) vaccines
- Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines
- Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccines
Babies and children younger than 7 years old receive DTaP, while older children and adults receive Tdap and Td. Td is also used for anyone who should not receive pertussis-containing vaccines.
CDC recommends tetanus vaccination for all people. 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.