DANTE, Va. (WJHL) — The Cumberland Plateau Health District is providing free tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines to individuals affected by the floods in Dante.

Vaccines will be given at the Dante Community Center on Wednesday from 1 to 3 p.m.

Those assisting with flood recovery may also get vaccinated.

The health department emphasizes the importance of residents and first responders ensuring their tetanus vaccinations are current. Tetanus symptoms, often referred to as “lockjaw,” include fever, jaw cramping, muscle spasms, and seizures.

“Tetanus bacteria occur naturally in soil,” the health district stated in a release. “When wading through flood water, you may come into contact with sharp objects, causing injuries that allow the tetanus bacteria to penetrate your body. While tetanus infections are rare, they can be serious or even life-threatening.”

The health district said the best way to prevent infection is to be vaccinated before exposure. It is recommended that adults receive tetanus shots every 10 years.

“However, tetanus vaccination is still effective if given within 48 hours after an injury,” the health district said.

You may need a tatanus booster shot if:

• It has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus vaccination
• You have a puncture wound and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination
• You have a wound that has come in contact with floodwater, and it has been more than five years since your last tetanus vaccination.