The Chatham County Health Department will be out at the Compassion Christian Church Resource Center next week administering tetanus vaccinations as part of the community-wide response to the Ogeechee River flooding.
Tetanus bacteria are naturally present in soil. If you are wading through floodwaters and are injured by a sharp object, the bacteria can enter your body. Tetanus infection is rare, but can be very serious and even fatal.
The best way to prevent infection is to be vaccinated before you become infected, which is why all adults should get a tetanus booster shot every 10 years, although the tetanus vaccine is still effective if given within 48 hours of injury.
“Any residents or emergency personnel injured during the cleanup and recovery efforts should immediately contact their health care provider for a tetanus booster shot and do not wait until next week to see them,” said Dr. Sierra Peebles, chief nurse for the Chatham County Health Department. “However, because the cleanup efforts are not yet over, our public health nurses will be ready to assist at our resource center next week for anyone who needs a tetanus booster shot.”
Tetanus vaccinations will be available at Compassion Christian Church Adult Ministry Center, 50 Al Henderson Boulevard, on Tuesday, August 20th and Thursday, August 22nd from 4-8pm. Tetanus vaccinations will also be available at the Chatham County Health Department's two clinics in Savannah during regular office hours. No appointment is needed to receive a tetanus vaccination.
The cost of a tetanus vaccination is covered by most health insurance plans. Insurance plans are billed at no out-of-pocket cost to patients. People without insurance can get the vaccine at no cost to them.
Residents are urged to keep children away from flood waters, which can displace insects and reptiles and pose a danger to people. Water may also be contaminated with bacteria and harmful chemicals. If you must come into contact with flood water while cleaning up, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
