Tetanus Vaccination

Tetanus is caused by bacteria, Clostridium tetani, the spores of which are found in the soil or in the guts of farm animals. It is more common in hot and damp climates. It can contaminate many surfaces and is very hard to avoid. The bacteria spores commonly infect the body through a wound, burn, cut or scrape. The infection then spreads via the bloodstream, releasing strychnine-like neurotoxins that cause muscle spasms.

About 10 to 20% of cases of infection by tetanus bacteria result in death.

What are the symptoms of tetanus?

Tetanus symptoms develop over an incubation period which lasts between four and 21 days.

Lockjaw is the earliest symptom: the jaw muscles stiffen and spasm to such a degree that it is hard for the patient to open their mouth. The patient may suffer from heavy sweats and elevated temperature, heartbeat and blood pressure.

The stiffness spreads down the body and can cause breathing difficulties leading to suffocation. The muscle spasms can result in broken bones.

If you think you may have tetanus and are suffering from muscle pain or spasms, seek medical help immediately.

Tetanus can be treated with tetanus immunoglobulin and antibiotics. Patients usually need to be looked after in an intensive care unit. Most people recover after several weeks or months.

Countries where tetanus is a risk

Tetanus bacteria is prevalent throughout the world.

Am I at risk from tetanus?

If you have not had a tetanus booster for ten years, and you are going to somewhere with limited medical facilities, you should get one before travelling abroad.

People who have not been fully vaccinated against tetanus are also at risk and should have the full three-dose course.

Avoid tetanus

Tetanus is not contagious – so it cannot be caught from other people. It is often contracted through puncture wounds or burns so do your best to avoid accidents. Seek medical attention for any wound that is larger than 5cm, has a jagged edge, if there is dirt or something in it such as glass and particularly if it was caused by a human or animal bite. Be extra vigilant with wounds acquired while travelling in tropical regions, as they can become infected very easily.

Avoid activities such as intravenous drug use and do not get tattoos or piercings from places with questionable hygiene standards.