Medical question re: dog nip

[Lottie2267]

Hi all
Sorry if this sounds ridiculous! I got nipped on my finger yesterday by my puppy when she was playing. It’s a tiny cut which I probably would have to point out to you if you saw my finger but it did draw blood (a really tiny amount!!) I usually wouldn’t think twice about it but I’ve just found out I’m about 6 weeks pregnant. I rang 111 (not sure if I was overreacting) just for some advice. They said for me to ring my GP on Monday to check my tetanus status. I know I haven’t had a jab in the last 10 years. My question is - do I need the jab now for such a small bite? It’s barely anything. I have had a couple of miscarriages before and although I’m sure the jab is safe and they wouldn’t give it to me if it wasn’t, I can’t help but feel worried it would cause another miscarriage. Just wondering if anyone has ever been in the same position or if there’s anyone from the medical field who can offer any advice? My puppy had her second jabs on 30th of August, she hasn’t been in contact with any dogs or anything like that. Thanks

I’d keep it clean and keep an eye on it. See how it is in Monday

I can understand your worry, however the NHS webpage says that if you were fully vaccinated in childhood that this should provide lifelong protection.

That’s not quite true. For a dirty wound or dog bite, or if travelling to places where healthcare is poor, a booster is offered every 10 years.

Whilst I have no wish to argue with you @KangarooKenny the page I read doesn't quite say that either. www.nhs.uk/conditions/tetanus/
For a deep or dirty wound seek medical advice. Which op has done.

Apologies for any confusion or upset @Lottie2267 i was attempting to be reassuring. Keep it clean and keep an eye and do check your vaccination status as planned.

If you’d like to Google ‘The Green Book DTP’ you’ll see that extra doses are given in certain situations, like the one I mentioned. The 5 doses given in this country aren’t necessarily the only ones you’ll receive.

Also dog bites can get really infected quickly.

I know a personal injury barrister who says most of his work is dealing with dog bites. Please go and get antibiotics. As pp said they get infected really easily (and provide lots of work for the PI profession).