Tetanus: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention Through Vaccination

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection affecting the nervous system, caused by Clostridium tetani (found in soil, dust, manure). It can be fatal without prompt treatment.

Symptoms

• Jaw stiffness (lockjaw)
• Difficulty swallowing
• Neck/back muscle stiffness
• Painful muscle spasms
• Fever, sweating, anxiety, headache

Transmission

Associated with puncture wounds (nails, splinters, animal bites) but can follow burns, surgery, or any skin‑breaking injury.

Prevention

• Vaccination is highly effective.
• Childhood series: 3 doses
• Booster every 10 years

If unvaccinated and you sustain a skin‑breaking injury, seek immediate medical attention. You may need a tetanus shot and wound care. Consequences of non‑vaccination can be fatal.