Do you need a tetanus shot after being cut by a fruit knife?

Generally, whether a wound caused by a fruit knife requires a tetanus shot depends on the condition of the wound and the individual's vaccination history. If the wound is superficial and clean, and the person has been vaccinated against tetanus within the past 5–10 years, a tetanus injection is usually not necessary. However, if the wound is deep, heavily contaminated, or the person is overdue for vaccination, prompt medical evaluation is required. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If the fruit knife is clean and rust-free, and only causes a minor superficial cut with little bleeding, and the person has completed standard tetanus vaccination within the past 5–10 years (ensuring sufficient antibody levels), simply rinse the wound immediately with running water, disinfect with iodine tincture, and keep it dry—no additional injection is needed.

If the fruit knife is rusty or dirty, and the injury results in a deep wound with significant bleeding or embedded foreign material, creating an enclosed environment conducive to bacterial growth, medical assessment is necessary. Especially if the person hasn't received a tetanus vaccine in the past 10 years, or had a severely contaminated wound in the past 5 years without a booster dose, the wound should first be thoroughly cleaned, followed by prompt medical consultation to determine the need for vaccination.

In daily care, keep the wound clean and dry, disinfect twice daily with iodine tincture, and avoid pressure or contact with water. Maintain a light diet rich in protein and vitamins to promote healing. Regularly clean and maintain fruit knives, avoid using dull or rusty blades, and reduce the risk of cuts.