What Is Tetanus?

Tetanus is a bacterial infection that attacks the nervous system. Tetanus may result in severe muscle spasms, and this can lead to a condition known as lockjaw, which prevents the mouth from opening and closing. Tetanus can be fatal.

Tetanus is caused when the bacterium, Clostridium tetani, enters the body through a break in the skin. The bacterium can come from soil, dust, or manure. It produces a toxin that causes the illness.

This infection is most common in people aged 50 years and older. Also, people who have not been immunized for tetanus, who do not update their tetanus shot regularly, who use intravenous (IV) drugs, who have skin sores or wounds, or who have had burns or open wounds exposed to soil or animal feces are at increased risk of developing tetanus.

In the United States and other countries with tetanus vaccination programs, the condition is rare.

What Is the Tetanus Vaccine?

The tetanus vaccine is an inactivated toxoid (a substance that can create an antitoxin). There are different types of the vaccines to prevent tetanus, including:

  • DTaP—given to children to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis
  • Tdap—given to children, adolescents, and adults (including pregnant women) to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis
  • Td—given to adolescents and adults to protect against tetanus and diphtheria
Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?
DTap

The DTaP vaccine is generally required before starting school. The regular immunization schedule is to give the vaccine at:

  • 2 months
  • 4 months
  • 6 months
  • 15-18 months
  • 4-6 years
Tdap

Tdap is routinely recommended for children aged 11-12 years who have completed the DTaP series. Tdap can also be given to:

  • Children aged 7-10 years who have not been fully vaccinated
  • Children and teens aged 13-18 years who did not get the Tdap when they were 11-12 years old
  • Adults under 65 years who have never received Tdap
  • Pregnant women after 20 weeks gestation who have not previously received Tdap
  • Adults who have not been previously vaccinated and who have contact with babies aged 12 months or younger
  • Healthcare providers who have not previously received Tdap
Td

Td is given as a booster shot every 10 years. The vaccine may also be given if you have a severe cut or burn.

Catch-Up Schedule

If you or your child has not been fully vaccinated against tetanus, talk to the doctor.

What Are the Risks Associated With the Tetanus Vaccine?

Most people tolerate the tetanus-containing vaccines without any trouble. The most common side effects are pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomachache.

Rarely, a fever of more than 102ºF, severe gastrointestinal problems, or severe headache may occur. Nervous system problems and severe allergic reactions are extremely rare. Localized allergic reactions (redness and swelling) at the injection site may occur, while anaphylaxis (life-threatening, widespread allergic reaction) is extremely rare.

Acetaminophen (eg, Tylenol) is sometimes given to reduce pain and fever that may occur after getting a vaccine. In infants, the medicine may weaken the vaccine's effectiveness. Discuss the risks and benefits of taking acetaminophen with the doctor.

Who Should Not Get Vaccinated?

The vast majority of people should receive their tetanus-containing vaccinations on schedule. However, individuals in whom the risks of vaccination outweigh the benefits include those who:

  • Have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to DTP, DTap, DT, Tdap, or Td vaccine
  • Have had a severe allergy to any component of the vaccine to be given
  • Have gone into a coma or long seizure within seven days after a dose of DTP or DTaP

Talk with your doctor before getting the vaccine if you have:

  • Allergy to latex
  • Epilepsy or other nervous system problem
  • Severe swelling or severe pain after a previous dose of any component of the vaccination to be given
  • Guillain-Barre syndrome

Wait until you recover to get the vaccine if you have moderate or severe illness on the day your shot is scheduled.

What Other Ways Can Tetanus Be Prevented Besides Vaccination?

Caring properly for wounds, including promptly cleaning them and seeing a doctor for medical care, can prevent a tetanus infection.