JACKSON — The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) reminds all residents recently affected by flooding that a tetanus vaccination is recommended if it has been 10 years or more since your last tetanus vaccination.
Residents and first responders involved in storm cleanup are at greater risk of injury and possible tetanus infection. In the event of a puncture wound or wound contaminated by floodwater, individuals should consult a healthcare provider.
Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) vaccinations are available at all county health departments and are FREE in the following counties affected by recent flooding: Bolivar, Claiborne, Clarke, Coahoma, Covington, Forrest, Greene, Hancock, Hinds, Jefferson Davis, Jones, Lamar, Leake, Lincoln, Marion, Marshall, Panola, Pearl River, Perry, Pike, Quitman, Rankin, Smith, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica, Washington and Wayne.
For more information, visit the MSDH website: www.HealthyMS.com or sign up for Twitter and Facebook: www.HealthyMS.com/connect.
IN THE PHOTO: Tutwiler’s Hopson Street bridge (seen at left) was closed late last week after heavy rains caused the Hopson Bayou to overflow and flood the bridge. This photo was taken Saturday. Because of flooding and the potential for injury by residents due to unseen dangers beneath the water, the Mississippi State Department of Health is offering a free T-dap vaccine in counties that suffered flooding. (Photo by Clay McFerrin)
