Tetanus shots at Brentwood Pharmacy
Tetanus Shot in Burnaby
Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is a serious infection caused by bacteria found mostly in soil. It can get into your body through a cut or other wound. A booster every 10 years keeps you protected, and the tetanus booster is free in BC.
Pregnant? Please book a pregnancy vaccination appointment instead, so we can plan Tdap and any other vaccines together.
A booster every 10 years
Adults need a tetanus and diphtheria (Td) booster every 10 years. Never had the shots, or have no record? You need 3 doses over about a year, then a booster every 10 years.
Do you need a tetanus shot after a wound?
A quick rule of thumb. It depends on the wound and on when you had your last tetanus shot.
Clean, minor wound
You need a shot if your last tetanus shot was more than 10 years ago.
Dirty wound
Dirty means dirt, soil, spit or feces got in it. You need a shot if your last one was more than 5 years ago. See a doctor first if the wound is deep or serious.
Not sure if the wound is dirty
Treat it as dirty. You need a shot if your last one was more than 5 years ago.
You don't know when your last shot was
Come in or call. Our pharmacist will help you work out what you need. If you never had the full series, you may need more than one dose.
No wound? You still need a booster every 10 years.
Book your visit
Book your tetanus shot
Choose a time below. For a minor cut, you can also walk in during our hours. Our pharmacist will check your vaccine history and confirm Td or Tdap. Questions? Call (604) 564-3334.
Pregnant? Please book a pregnancy vaccination appointment instead.
Having trouble with the calendar? Open booking in a new tab or call our pharmacy.
How it works
Getting your tetanus shot is quick.
Book or walk in
Choose a time in the calendar above. For a minor cut, walk in during our hours or call first.
Bring what you know
Bring your vaccine record if you have it, or the date of your last tetanus shot. Let us know if you are pregnant.
Get your shot
Your pharmacist reviews your history, confirms Td or Tdap, and gives your vaccine.
Frequently asked questions
A few things to know before your visit.
How often do I need a tetanus booster?
Adults need a booster every 10 years. After a wound, you may need one sooner. See the rule of thumb above.
Can I walk in for a tetanus shot after a cut?
Yes, for a minor cut. Walk in during our hours or call us first. For a deep, serious or dirty wound, see a doctor or go to urgent care instead.
I was never vaccinated, or I don't know. What do I need?
You need 3 doses over about a year, then a booster every 10 years. These doses are free in BC. Your pharmacist will help you plan them.
What is the difference between Td and Tdap?
Td protects against tetanus and diphtheria. Tdap also protects against whooping cough. Td is free in BC. Tdap is free in pregnancy and for anyone not fully immunized, and is offered at a cost as a routine adult booster. Read more about Tdap.
Why see a doctor for a serious wound?
A serious wound may need cleaning, stitches or other care. Some people also need tetanus immune globulin, a different medicine given by a doctor, usually if they never finished their tetanus shots or don't know. A pharmacy visit does not cover this.
What are common side effects?
Soreness, redness or swelling where the needle went in. Some people get a fever, headache or sore muscles. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help. Do not give ASA (Aspirin) to anyone under 18.
Tell your pharmacist if you had a serious reaction to a vaccine before.
Can I get a tetanus shot while pregnant?
Yes. Tdap is recommended in every pregnancy and is free in BC. It also protects your baby from whooping cough. See vaccines during pregnancy or book a pregnancy vaccination appointment.
Due for a tetanus shot?
Book online, walk in for a minor cut, or call our team for help at Brentwood Pharmacy.
4451 Lougheed Hwy.
Burnaby, BC V5C 3Z2
Monday to Friday: 9 AM to 6 PM
Saturday: 10 AM to 2 PM
Health information: HealthLink BC: Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine and HealthLink BC: Preventing tetanus infections.
General information to support your conversation with a pharmacist. This page does not replace medical care for a wound. Individual eligibility is confirmed by the pharmacist.
