What is Tetanus?
Tetanus, often called “lockjaw,” is a serious infection caused by bacteria that affect your nervous system. It leads to painful muscle stiffness, especially in the jaw, making it hard to open your mouth. Tetanus can make it difficult to breathe and can be very dangerous if not treated.
How Do You Get Tetanus?
Tetanus bacteria are found in soil, dust, and animal waste. They can enter your body through cuts, puncture wounds, or even small scrapes. Here are some common ways you can get tetanus:
- Stepping on a rusty nail or getting a wood or metal splinter
- Getting burned
- Having an exposed broken bone
- Suffering crush injuries
- Getting bitten by an insect or a dog
- Using dirty syringes
- Having surgery
- Getting dental infections
You cannot catch tetanus from another person.
Who is at Risk?
- Anyone with an injury: Tetanus can affect anyone who has a wound that allows bacteria to enter their body.
- Unvaccinated individuals: People who have not received any tetanus shots are at higher risk.
- Incomplete childhood vaccinations: Those who haven’t finished their childhood vaccination series for tetanus are more vulnerable.
- Booster shot neglect: Individuals who haven’t received a Td or Tdap booster in the last 10 years are at greater risk.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of tetanus usually start 3 to 21 days after the bacteria enter your body, often around 7 to 10 days. Common symptoms include:
- Muscle stiffness, especially in the jaw (lockjaw)
- Trouble swallowing
- Muscle spasms in the stomach, back, arms, and legs
- Fever and sweating
- Headaches
- Difficulty breathing
- Drooling
- Stiffness in the neck
If you have tetanus, your muscles may tighten and spasm uncontrollably.
How is Tetanus Treated?
Tetanus is a medical emergency, and you need to go to the hospital right away. Treatment usually includes:
- Cleaning the wound: Doctors will clean the injury to remove dirt and bacteria.
- Medications: High doses of antibiotics to eliminate the bacteria. Muscle relaxants and sedatives to manage spasms.
- Supportive care: This can include help with breathing and monitoring your health closely.
Once symptoms start, it can take 2 to 3 weeks for the illness to go away. With the right treatment, most people can recover, but it might take a few months to feel completely better.
How Can You Prevent Tetanus?
The best way to prevent tetanus is through vaccination. Most people get this vaccine as kids. Adults should get a Td or Tdap booster shot every 10 years to stay protected. If you have a deep or dirty wound and it’s been more than 5 years since your last booster, you may need another shot.
What Should You Do if You Get a Wound?
- Seek medical attention: If you have a deep or dirty cut, see a doctor immediately.
- Consider a tetanus shot: You may need a tetanus booster shot to prevent infection.
- Clean the wound: Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water right after you get hurt.
- Check for contamination: Pay extra attention if the wound has been in contact with soil or animal waste.
- Stay updated on vaccinations: Keep your tetanus vaccinations current to protect yourself from tetanus.
For More Information
- Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tetanus
- Talk to your healthcare provider for more information about prevention and treatment.
Copyright @ 2025 Chinese Community Health Resource Center
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