most people in the united states have been immunized against tetanus (lockjaw). if you have been immunized you will need a booster shot if you have not had one within 10 years (if it is a very dirty wound or occurs in a tetanus-prone area you need a booster within five years). if you have never had a tetanus shot or if your series is incomplete (fewer than three shots) you might need tetanus immunoglobulin a medication that can prevent lockjaw.
will i need a tetanus shot if i have a cut?