Tetanus Booster Needed?

[zalue]

Hi,

I was trying to open a can of plastic paint today, and I somehow cut my thumb. The can had been on a shelf in the basement for a few months. It's not a terribly deep cut, but the skin is definitely penetrated. I cleaned it out very well and it looks good now.

Question: I last had a tetanus booster in July of 2002, which is obviously just a hair over 5 years ago. Do you think I need another one for this injury?

I've been aware for some time about needing a booster every 10 years for tetanus, but now I'm reading some things on the internet about getting one when it's over 5 years and you have an injury.

I don't want to overreact, nor do I want to get TOO many boosters, for I've read that can be bad, too. I guess I don't understand why they say, "Get one every 10 years" if there is this 5 year stipulation as well. It seems it should instead be, "Get one every 5 years..."

Thanks!  
  

[tomel]

If you want to avoid to many booster..get your Titers checked...then you will know if you even need it..if more people did this there wouldnt be as many boosters given.

[often]

According to info on the Mayo Clinic website...they suggest 5 years if it is a deep, dirty cut....10 years for any wound.  Based on the info at that site, I don't think you need to worry.  You state yours is not deep, you cleaned it well.