FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 23, 2016
Contact: Heather Meador, RN, BSN
Phone: 319.892.6061
Email: [email protected]
Linn County Public Health – Tetanus Vaccine Guidance for Flood Clean-Up Effort
Cedar Rapids, IA – As efforts are underway in Linn County to prepare for significant flooding, Linn County Public Health is urging residents in and around flooded areas to take precautions to help prevent disease and stay safe.
Individuals injured while working in flood water are at an increased risk for tetanus infection. Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria that can get into the body through broken skin, typically through injuries from contaminated objects. Exposure to flood waters alone does not increase the risk of tetanus. Individuals do not need a tetanus booster due to being exposed to flood water.
Residents who are injured in flood water and received a tetanus vaccine more than five years ago should seek proper medical treatment and have their tetanus immunization status reviewed. Vaccinations are available at the Linn County Public Health. Please call 319-892-6093 for questions or to schedule an appointment.
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