Get a Tetanus Shot if Exposed to Floodwaters
After floodwaters have inundated your home or business, it’s essential to prioritize your health and well-being. One important preventive measure is getting a tetanus shot if you’ve been exposed to contaminated water.
Why You Need a Tetanus Shot After Basement Flooding
- Floodwaters can harbor harmful bacteria and contaminants, including tetanus
- Tetanus is a serious infection caused by bacteria found in soil and dust
- It can lead to painful muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, and even death
Who Should Get a Tetanus Shot?
- Anyone who has waded, played, or cleaned in floodwaters
- Individuals with wounds, cuts, or scrapes exposed to floodwater
- People who have had tetanus shots more than ten years ago
How to Get a Tetanus Shot
- Contact your doctor’s office or local health department
- Explain your exposure to floodwaters
- If necessary, you will be given a tetanus shot to protect yourself
Additional Precautions
- Avoid showering or bathing if floodwaters have entered your home
- Wear shoes and gloves when cleaning up
- Dispose of contaminated items, such as food, toys, and bedding
- Contact your insurance company to report water damage
Taking these steps can protect your health and prevent the spread of tetanus and other waterborne diseases.