The general recommendation is to have a tetanus shot (booster) every 10 years for adults to maintain protection against tetanus. After completing the initial childhood vaccination series, adults should receive a booster shot every decade. In cases of certain types of wounds, a booster may be advised sooner, for example, if a deep or potentially contaminated wound occurs and it has been more than 5 years since the last shot. Some research suggests that immunity might last longer than 10 years, possibly up to 30 years, but current official guidelines, including those from the CDC, advise a 10-year interval as the standard practice. Children receive a series of doses starting in infancy with boosters at recommended intervals through adolescence.