Final answer:
Tetanus can be contracted through a wound, especially a dirty one. If it's been 5 years since the last booster, then immediate medical attention should be sought to clean the wound and potentially administer a tetanus booster.
Step-by-step explanation:
If someone hasn't had a tetanus booster in 5 years and they've acquired a dirty traumatic wound, immediate medical attention is necessary. Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria which often live in soil and dust. This bacteria can enter the body through a wound, especially a deep one or one caused by dirty objects, potentially leading to serious health problems including muscle stiffness and spasm.
A person should receive a tetanus booster every 10 years, but in the case of a dirty wound, it should be given if it's been more than 5 years since the last shot. So under these circumstances, go to an urgent care facility or emergency room so they can properly clean the wound, determine the severity, and administer the necessary booster shot or other treatment.
Learn more about Tetanus vaccination