Tetanus Vaccine – Reliable Travel Protection from Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic

Introduction: Why I Recommend the Tetanus Vaccine for Travellers

As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, I’ve seen just how important the Tetanus vaccine can be. Unlike some travel diseases that only exist abroad, Tetanus is found everywhere in the world, including the UK. That means you can be at risk whether you’re exploring the jungles of Thailand, trekking in India, or simply gardening at home.

Because Tetanus is caused by bacteria that live in soil and dirt, even a small cut or graze can allow the infection to enter your body. And unlike most infections, Tetanus doesn’t spread from person to person – so vaccination is the only real protection.

➡️ If you’re unsure whether you’re up to date with your Tetanus jabs, I’d strongly recommend booking a quick consultation: Book Your Appointment

What is Tetanus?

Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. The bacteria release a powerful toxin that attacks the nervous system, leading to painful muscle stiffness and spasms.

Symptoms of Tetanus include:

• Jaw stiffness (often called “lockjaw”)

• Difficulty swallowing

• Painful muscle spasms

• Breathing problems in severe cases

• Risk of death if untreated

Because Tetanus bacteria live in soil, dust, and animal manure, the infection can occur from even the smallest wound – a scratch, puncture, or burn.

You can read more about Tetanus here: NHS – Tetanus

Why Travellers Need the Tetanus Vaccine

While Tetanus can happen anywhere, it’s particularly dangerous when travelling. Medical facilities abroad may not have access to the intensive care required to treat severe Tetanus, making prevention vital.

You should consider a booster if you are:

• Travelling to rural or remote areas of Asia, Africa, or South America

• Backpacking, trekking, or camping outdoors

• Doing volunteer work, farming, or manual labour abroad

• Unsure when your last Tetanus jab was

➡️ Learn more: Tetanus Vaccine – Droitwich Travel Clinic

How Does the Tetanus Vaccine Work?

The Tetanus vaccine contains an inactivated form of the Tetanus toxin. This stimulates your immune system to produce protective antibodies without causing the disease itself.

UK vaccination schedule:

• Given as part of the NHS childhood programme

• Usually given in 5 doses by age 14

• Boosters recommended every 10 years for travel

At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I check your vaccination history and advise whether you need a booster dose before you travel.

Tetanus Vaccine for Travellers: How Often Do You Need It?

• If you’ve had 5 doses in your lifetime, you’re usually protected.

• Travellers often benefit from a booster if the last dose was over 10 years ago.

• For high-risk destinations, I often recommend keeping your cover fully up to date.

This is especially important for those travelling to India, Indonesia, or Thailand, where medical care for severe Tetanus may be limited.

Other Vaccines Often Combined with Tetanus

The Tetanus vaccine is sometimes given on its own, but more commonly as part of a combined travel vaccine. At our clinic, I often administer Tetanus alongside:

• [Diphtheria and Polio boosters] (often provided in a single injection)

• Typhoid – common in South Asia

• Rabies – for rural travellers and animal contact risk

• Hepatitis A – for food and waterborne protection

➡️ We’ll build a personalised travel vaccination plan for you: Book Now

Tetanus vs. Other Travel Infections

Here’s how Tetanus compares with other common travel risks:

Side Effects of the Tetanus Vaccine

The Tetanus vaccine is very safe. Most side effects are mild and short-lived.

Common mild side effects:

• Pain or redness at the injection site

• Mild fever

• Headache or fatigue

Rare side effects:

• Allergic reaction (extremely rare)

Before giving any vaccine, I always review your medical history to ensure it’s safe and appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions – Tetanus Vaccine

1. Do I really need a Tetanus booster for travel?
Yes, especially if it’s been over 10 years since your last dose. Travelling to rural areas increases your risk.

2. How many doses do I need?
Most people only need a booster dose if they’ve already had 5 doses in their lifetime.

3. Can children get the Tetanus vaccine?
Yes – it’s part of the UK childhood schedule, but I’ll check if your child needs a booster before travel.

4. Is Tetanus contagious?
No – you can’t catch it from other people. It’s only acquired through contaminated wounds.

5. Is the Tetanus vaccine free on the NHS?
Yes, if you need it as part of the routine NHS schedule or after an injury. For travel purposes, it’s usually given privately.

6. Can I get Tetanus from a minor cut?
Yes – even small cuts or grazes can let the bacteria in. That’s why vaccination is essential.

7. How quickly does the vaccine work?
Protection develops within 2 weeks of a booster dose.

Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic for Your Tetanus Vaccine?

Patients from across Droitwich, Worcester, and Worcestershire trust us because:

• We provide all major travel vaccines under one roof

• We offer flexible same-week appointments

• I (Aran Bassi) personally assess every patient

• We combine Tetanus with other vaccines for efficient protection

• Convenient local care – no need to wait for GP referrals

➡️ Book your Tetanus vaccine today and travel with confidence.

Conclusion: Don’t Risk Tetanus – Stay Protected Wherever You Travel

Tetanus is preventable, but once symptoms appear, it’s often life-threatening. That’s why keeping your Tetanus vaccination up to date is one of the simplest yet most important steps you can take before travelling.

At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I’ll make sure you’re fully covered and provide any boosters you need – quickly, safely, and locally.

➡️ Book your appointment now

Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618