Tetanus Risk?
 

I know this is a strange topic....

I'm having a good weekend, watching movies, playing some video games, and checking out the news online from San Diego Comic Convention. Then later my dog scratches me on the arm, and it breaks the skin.

That was on Friday, and now I'm worried that I might be at risk of tetanus. Here's the thing though: I do believe that I have OCD, so I worry about a lot of stuff anyways, and the scratch barely bled and it is not very deep. It's tiny. It was from a dog though. My family thinks I'm crazy for even being concerned that this is a possible tetanus risk.

So before I do anything about this (or not), what does everyone think?

I'm pretty sure you would only need a tetanus if you step on a rusty nail or get a scratch that way... I'd just clean it with some antibacterial soap and warm water.

-ms

I would seek the professional advice of a doctor instead of asking some random people on the internet.

Seriously, it's much better than thinking it's nothing and then dealing with Tetanus. You do NOT want that.

Thank you for replying. That's what I think too, in a rational way, but part of my mind was causing me to worry. I continued to think about it until the worrying turned to mild anxiety.

Yeah, I don't want that.

You're right, professional advice would be the best. I wouldn't want to over react though (and my doctor to think I'm strange), I'm just having a hard time deciding what to do. Most likely I will make an appointment.

Again, thanks to those who reply.

I understand your concern that it may just be nothing. However, you're going in with a legitimate concern. It's not like you'll be going in with a cough and thinking you have prostate cancer or something outrageous.

That peace of mind will feel good, trust me.

If you want to be safe you can get a shot at most pharmacies that have a nurse practitioner on staff.....like rite aid or walgreens, etc. Big chain ones.

Won't hurt to get vaccinated.....not like it would kill you if you didn't have anything going on. I get one once a year or so just because.