The Pennsylvania Department of Health is advising Butler residents to make sure their tetanus vaccine is current before participating in cleanup efforts.
Exposure to flood water alone is not a reason to receive a tetanus vaccine but cleaning up after a flood event can expose people to hazards that may cause a wound which could become infected. Tetanus can cause painful muscle spasms and is not transmitted person to person.
Anyone participating in clean up is recommended to have had a tetanus booster in the last ten years. Anyone with a severe or dirty wound is advised to get a booster if they have not had one in the last five years.
Residents who are uninsured or underinsured could be eligible for a free vaccine at the Butler State Health Center on Brugh Avenue. Call the PA Department of Health for more information at 1-877-PA-HEALTH.
