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Summary
Tetanus is a serious illness caused by Clostridium bacteria. The bacteria live in soil, saliva, dust, and manure. The bacteria can enter the body through a deep cut, like those you might get from stepping on a nail, or through a burn.
The infection causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to "locking" of the jaw. This makes it impossible to open your mouth or swallow. Tetanus is a medical emergency. You need to get treatment in a hospital.
A vaccine can prevent tetanus. It is given as a part of routine childhood vaccination. Adults should get a tetanus shot, or booster, every 10 years. If you get a bad cut or burn, see your doctor - you may need a booster. Immediate and proper wound care can prevent tetanus infection.
Prevention and Risk Factors
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Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Vaccines: MedlinePlus Health Topic
(National Library of Medicine)
Also in Spanish
Statistics and Research
- Tetanus Surveillance and Trends (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Clinical Trials
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ClinicalTrials.gov: Tetanus
(National Institutes of Health)
Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: Seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against tetanus toxoid among different age groups...
- Article: Acceptance and uptake of vaccines against tetanus, influenza, pertussis, and COVID-19...
- Article: Progress Toward Achieving and Sustaining Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination -...
- Tetanus -- see more articles