Tetanus Vaccination in South Shore, Montreal
Tetanus vaccination at Clinique Revive is given as part of a combined product (Td or Tdap), since stand-alone tetanus vaccine is not used in Canadian practice. Adults need a booster every 10 years; sooner if you have sustained a deep, contaminated, or large wound and your last dose was more than 5 years ago.
The clinic provides the appropriate combined vaccine, documents the dose for your records, and can also assess any wound that prompted the visit.
Td or Tdap
Tetanus is included in Td (tetanus + diphtheria) or Tdap (tetanus + diphtheria + pertussis); the clinician chooses which.
Routine ten-year cycle
For adults with no recent wound concerns, a booster every 10 years maintains protection.
Wound-driven booster
Deep, contaminated, or puncture wounds warrant earlier boosting if your last dose was more than 5 years ago.
When tetanus vaccination is appropriate
Update is appropriate every 10 years on routine schedule; after a wound that is deep, dirty, or punctate (rusty nail, animal bite, large laceration with debris) if your last dose was over 5 years ago; and during pregnancy (Tdap, for newborn pertussis protection). Tetanus immune globulin (TIG) — a different intervention — may also be needed for some high-risk wounds in unvaccinated or under-vaccinated patients; the clinician evaluates this when relevant.
Vaccination is typically deferred during acute febrile illness.
Preparation for a tetanus vaccination
Bring your vaccination record so the clinician can confirm the date of your last tetanus-containing vaccine. If a wound prompted the visit, do not bandage it heavily; the clinician will want to assess it.
Mention any history of severe reactions to tetanus-containing vaccines (these are rare but matter). Eat normally beforehand.
Wear clothing that exposes the upper arm easily.
What to expect after a tetanus shot
Local arm soreness is common and can last a few days; cool compresses and gentle movement help. Mild fatigue or low-grade fever can occur but are usually short-lived.
The clinician documents the dose, advises when the next booster is due, and — if a wound prompted the visit — may also clean and dress the wound or refer for stitches if needed.
- Health card or ID
- vaccination history
- medication list
- details of any recent wound
Registered nurse
15–20 minutes
South Shore, Montreal, Kahnawake, Candiac — and across the South Shore (Rive-Sud)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m overdue for a tetanus booster?
If your last documented tetanus-containing vaccine was more than 10 years ago (5 years for a high-risk wound), you are due. If you are not sure, the clinician can vaccinate; an extra booster is not harmful.
I stepped on a rusty nail — do I need a tetanus shot?
Probably yes if your last dose was more than 5 years ago. The wound itself needs proper cleaning regardless.
The clinic can do both.
Can tetanus be treated if I don’t get the vaccine?
Tetanus disease can be very severe and is treated supportively in hospital with antibiotics, antitoxin, and intensive care. Prevention through vaccination is dramatically more effective.
Is the soreness normal?
Yes — tetanus-containing vaccines are well known for arm soreness lasting 2–3 days. It usually resolves on its own.