The recommended schedule for tetanus shots is as follows:
- Children and Infants: A 5-dose DTaP series is given at 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 15-18 months, and 4-6 years of age
- Adolescents: A single dose of Tdap is recommended at 11 to 12 years of age
- Adults: After the initial series, adults should receive a tetanus booster shot every 10 years to maintain protection. Once an adult has received a dose of Tdap, subsequent boosters can be either Td or Tdap
- Wound-related boosters: If you get a deep or contaminated wound and it has been more than 5 years since your last booster, you should get a tetanus booster promptly
There is some research suggesting that immunity may last longer than 10 years, potentially up to 30 years after the initial series, but current official guidelines still recommend boosters every 10 years for adults
. In summary, the standard practice is a tetanus booster every 10 years for adults after completing the childhood vaccination series, with additional boosters after certain injuries if needed