Question for Dr. Ralf Berg
August 22, 2012 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg
Hello Mr. Berg,
I have already asked the same question here before and it was kindly answered, but I would really like to hear your opinion again as I have read something about this topic that you answered. I am referring to tetanus. I was immunized as a child, then received a booster shot 9 years later, and another one 10 years after that. Now, 10 years have passed again. I would prefer not to re-vaccinate my body to avoid further burdening it, but I also do not want to act negligently. You once wrote that according to the latest findings, a primary immunization plus a booster shot should last a lifetime? Is this really the case? Because then I could potentially skip the next booster shot, perhaps my body still has enough antibodies? I am a very fearful person by nature. For example, I got a blister on my heel and then accidentally brushed it against a bush. Do I need to worry about this? Unfortunately, when you google too much, you come across terrible things, such as the pathogen being present in street dust? I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with an individualized answer. With kind regards.
Hello,
I am happy to answer your questions, due to my vacation I only received your inquiry today. The principle is that every documented vaccination counts. Since you have been primed with 3 doses of Tetanus and have now received 2 booster shots with long intervals, it is stated by the Robert Koch Institute, which issues vaccination guidelines, to assume lifelong immunity. (Exceptions: people with HIV or other genetic or acquired immunodeficiency).
If you are still unsure and want to avoid getting vaccinated again, there is the option to determine the so-called Tetanus antibody titer in a specialized laboratory. This measures how many antibodies against the Tetanus pathogen are still present in the blood. Although this is not covered by insurance, your general practitioner can surely take a blood sample and perform this test in their laboratory. Inquire with them about the cost (around 70-100 Euros).
Regarding your heel, you should not worry. It is true that the pathogen can be found not only in the soil but also in street dust and basically everywhere, which is why there is a general vaccination recommendation for everyone. But as I mentioned earlier, if you do not have any issues with your immune system, you can assume that even if you have been exposed to some Tetanus bacteria, they will be neutralized by your acquired antibodies.
I would actually recommend getting your antibody titer determined individually.
Best regards, R. C. Berg
