Georgetown, SC – As part of its continuing efforts to protect the health of area residents impacted by flooding, Tidelands Health will hold four free tetanus vaccination clinics this week.
The free clinics will be held Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at both Tidelands Andrews Medical Center, 701 S. Morgan Ave. in Andrews, and Tidelands Winyah Women’s Center, 1306 N. Fraser St. in Georgetown. On Thursday, Oct. 15, clinics will be offered from 10 a.m.-noon at the Georgetown location and from noon-2 p.m. at the Andrews location. Providers from Tidelands Health’s community health education department will administer the vaccines.
Each location will have 100 free vaccines available. Vaccines will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The clinics are walk-in only. No appointments will be accepted.
Tetanus is a potentially life-threatening medical condition caused by exposure to bacteria. Individuals involved in flood clean-up efforts may be at an increased risk for wounds, which can allow bacteria to enter the body. Tetanus bacteria are usually found in soil, dust and manure.
The tetanus vaccine is available to adults 18 and older. Some people should not receive the vaccine, including:
- A person who has had a life-threatening allergic reaction after a previous dose of any diphtheria, tetanus or pertussis-containing vaccine or who has a severe allergy to any part of the vaccine
- Anyone who has experienced a coma or long repeated seizures within seven days after a childhood dose of DTP or DTaP, or a previous dose of Tdap
Individuals who have seizures or other nervous system problems, who had severe pain or swelling after any vaccine containing diphtheria, tetanus or pertussis or who ever had Guillain Barré Syndrome should speak with their doctor before receiving the vaccine.
To avoid injury and prevent infection during flood cleanup, follow these steps: Wash often with soap and water. Wear protective clothing such as hard-soled shoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts and heavy work gloves. Take care of any wounds immediately by: Washing your hands, Cleaning the wound with soap and water, Patting the wound dry and applying a clean, dry dressing, Consulting your doctor to see if you need to receive a tetanus shot.
-This information is from a Press Release.
