Trinity County Providing Tdap Vaccine for Those Affected by the Helena Fire

Note: Image used by H.p.frei (Own work) [CC BY-SA 4.0 

Trinity County Public Health is providing Tdap vaccine [Editor’s note: Tdap protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis]  for those affected by or responding to the Helena Fire.

Tetanus is of concern when working in the soil while fighting fires and during the cleanup afterwards. Tetanus is an infection that can lead to serious health problems. Tetanus spores are commonly found in soil and can enter the body through breaks in the skin. Once inside the body, the spores become active bacteria and create toxins that cause painful muscle stiffness. This can lead to difficulty swallowing, breathing and death.

Routine tetanus vaccination is recommended every 10 years; however tetanus booster doses can be given as early as 5 years from the last booster for those at increased risk.

Trinity County Public Health will be offering Tdap vaccines during clinic hours on Mondays, from 9 AM to 5:30 PM. Please call 623-8209 for an appointment and walk-ins are welcomed.