Communicable Diseases
Tetanus fact sheet
Tetanus is a serious, sometimes fatal, disease of the central nervous system that is caused by an infection of a wound with spores of the bacterium, Clostridium tetani. The spores live in the soil. When spores enter the body through a wound, they can multiply and produce a toxin that affects the nerves that control muscle activity.
- The most common symptom is stiffness of the jaw, commonly known as lockjaw. This makes it difficult to open the mouth.
- Other symptoms include stiffness of abdominal and back muscles and contraction (spasms) of facial muscles.
- Sometimes a fast pulse, slight fever, and severe sweating may occur.
- Eventually painful muscle spasms develop. If they affect the chest and airways, the person can suffocate.
Tetanus can be prevented with a vaccine. Children who are less than 7 years of age can receive DTaP vaccine - a combined vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough). Teenagers and adults should receive booster doses of Td vaccine, a combined vaccine against tetanus and diphtheria every 10 years.
What should I do if I get a puncture injury?
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- Minor wounds: Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and warm water. Leave the wound uncovered, if possible.
- Severe injuries: - See a health care provider for evaluation and treatment (stitches, antibiotics, or a Td booster shot).
- Pay attention to any signs of infection such as redness or warmth of the wound, swelling, tenderness, or fever. If signs of infection develop, consult your health care provider.
If I am injured, how do I know if I need a tetanus shot?
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- For a minor injury - Get a tetanus shot if your last tetanus shot was over 10 years ago.
- For a complicated or contaminated wound (including puncture wounds) - Get a tetanus shot if your last tetanus shot was over 5 years ago.
Where can I get a tetanus shot?
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