Tetanus is a serious health concern, and understanding the disease, its transmission, symptoms, vaccination, and related side effects is crucial for residents and travellers in Singapore.

Tetanus is a bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani, commonly found in soil, dust, and animal faeces. It usually enters the body through cuts or wounds, especially those contaminated with dirt, faeces, or saliva. The bacteria produce a toxin that affects the brain and nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms.

Symptoms of tetanus include jaw cramping (lockjaw), muscle stiffness, difficulty swallowing, seizures, headache, fever, and increased blood pressure. Symptoms typically appear from a few days to several weeks after infection. Untreated tetanus can be life-threatening.

The protection provided by the tetanus vaccine lasts about 10 years. Booster shots are recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity.

The tetanus vaccine is recommended for everyone, with initial doses typically given in childhood as part of the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccine. Adults should get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. Those travelling to areas with limited medical care or who are at risk of injury can benefit from ensuring their vaccination is up to date.

Vaccinations offer significant individual benefits by boosting the immune system's ability to fight off specific infectious diseases. They reduce the risk of contracting serious illnesses, leading to fewer medical visits and a lower chance of hospitalization.

By staying up-to-date with vaccinations, individuals can also enjoy a greater sense of well-being and freedom to engage in various social activities, knowing they are protected against contagious diseases.

Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this will allow you to keep a record of the vaccinations.

Vaccination	Price*
Tetanus Vaccine	$45
Tetanus, reduced diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap)	$60

*Prices are subject to GST.
Please note Tdap vaccine subsidies are available for pregnant ladies under Non-CHAS / CHAS Green, Merdeka Generation (MG) and Pioneer Generation (PG) card holders. Please enquire with our friendly staff for more information.

Vaccination	Schedule
Tetanus Vaccine	Once every 10 years as an adult
Tetanus, reduced diphtheria and acellular pertussis (Tdap)	Once every 10 years as an adult

Side effects of the tetanus vaccine are usually mild and can include soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, and fatigue. Rarely, more serious side effects can occur, like an allergic reaction, which may involve difficulty in breathing or swallowing. Please seek immediate medical attention should you experience any severe reactions.

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)

Our vaccination clinics are conveniently located in Central Singapore. Same day appointments for vaccinations are available.

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)