News : Storm recovery: Heat, tetanus risks remain

Benton County Public Health Director Nancy Farmer said that the extreme summer heat and the risk of exposure to tetanus by those handling storm debris are health concerns that Benton County residents should keep in mind.

"Everyone knows about the heat," said Farmer. "But sometimes people forget about the risk of tetanus." She encourages those who will be working on storm-related projects to make sure they are up-to-date on tetanus. Anyone who suffers a skin puncturing injury should understand the risk of tetanus.

The Iowa Department of Public Health offers this advisory about the risk of tetanus after natural disasters:

During a disaster situation, people commonly ask questions about the risk of tetanus. Increases in diseases like tetanus are not typically seen following disaster situations. However, injuries received during or following a disaster may increase risk of this disease thus serving as a good reminder to check your immunization records. A tetanus containing immunization is routinely recommended for adults and children. People are at risk for tetanus infection when they are injured and wounds are contaminated by the environment. Anytime you get a wound, contact your health care provider to see if you need to receive a tetanus containing vaccine to protect you from disease. Adults should receive a booster dose of tetanus, diphtheria containing vaccine every 10 years. Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccine is routinely recommended as it also protects against whooping cough which causes illness every year in Iowa. Children need a basic series of four doses of vaccine between 2 and 18 months of age as well as booster doses at 4 to 6 years and 11 to 12 years of age. Please contact your healthcare provider to discuss your need for vaccination. If you have additional immunization questions contact your health care provider, Public Health Department or the Iowa Department of Public Health Immunization Program at 1-800-831-6293, or cisit the Immunization program website at www.idph.state.ia.us/ImmTB/Immunization.aspx?prog=Imm&pg=ImmHome