1. Skip to navigation
  2. Skip to content
  3. Skip to sidebar


Outdoor survival guide

Spring is finally here and we’re warming up to summer. Get ready for long days in the great outdoors by reading up on common health hazards you and your family might encounter.

By //
Originally published in Today's Parent May 2012


Tetanus 101
Tetanus bacteria, which can live in soil, produce toxins that cause an illness known as lockjaw. If your child gets a cut or puncture outdoors — and it’s been more than five years since her last tetanus shot — wash the wound with soap and water and contact a medical professional. Children usually receive tetanus protection as part of the 5-in-1 vaccines during the first 18 months, a booster between ages four and six, and a third dose at age 14 to 16.
Photo by Fertnig/iStockphoto.com

Questions about other illnesses that can affect your kids? Join the Kids' Health discussion on our community board.

A version of this article appeared in our May 2012 issue, with the headline Outdoor Survival Guide (p. 42).