Hyde County Health Department is urging all residents of Hyde County and volunteer groups assisting in Hyde County to be extremely cautious around debris and other storm hazards because of the increased risk of exposure to tetanus. Tetanus has long been identified as a top health concern for anyone working in disaster recovery areas. Individuals can be exposed to tetanus through the soil, structural debris (especially dirty nails), and human and animal feces.

Tetanus is a serious but preventable disease that causes severe muscle spasms, lockjaw and even death.

If one has not received a tetanus shot in the last 10 years, or do not remember the date of the last vaccination, contact the Hyde County Health Department at 252-926-4399 to make an appointment to receive this vaccination.

If someone gets a cut or an open wound while working with storm debris, wash it thoroughly with soap and warm, clean water to avoid infection. Apply an antibiotic ointment. For more serious wounds that develop redness, swelling, drainage, or do not stop bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.

If one is wounded and has not received a tetanus shot in the last 10 years, or do not remember the date of the last vaccination, schedule an appointment immediately.

Protect oneself and one’s family from tetanus by getting a tetanus shot now.