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For how long is the tetanus vaccine effective?

Prof HPS Sachdeva
Prof HPS Sachdev,
Senior Consultant Pediatrics,
Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research,
New Delhi

Q: I am not completely sure, whether I have undergone a complete dosage of anti-tetanus vaccine in childhood. But I am sure about 3 doses, which I took from my doctor. They are first when I was 17 years old. Second, when I was 25 years old and third a week back. How long will it be effective? Some doctors say that tetanus vaccine is effective for 6 months and some say 5 years. Please elaborate.

A:The protection after a shot of tetanus at this age lasts for five years.