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Tetanus
URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/tetanus.html

Tetanus

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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.

Start Here

  • Tetanus (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
  • Tetanus (For Parents) (Nemours Foundation) Also in Spanish
  • Tetanus: Questions and Answers (Immunization Action Coalition) - PDF

Prevention and Risk Factors

  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Vaccines: MedlinePlus Health Topic From the National Institutes of Health (National Library of Medicine) Also in Spanish

Statistics and Research

  • Tetanus Surveillance and Trends (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Clinical Trials

  • ClinicalTrials.gov: Tetanus From the National Institutes of Health (National Institutes of Health)

Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)

  • Article: Protective antibodies against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis following revaccination in children...
  • Article: Global analysis of tetanus incidence and mortality in children under 5...
  • Article: Tetanus: historical and palaeopathological aspects considering its current health impact.
  • Tetanus -- see more articles

Find an Expert

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Also in Spanish
  • National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases From the National Institutes of Health

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  • Tetanus (Nemours Foundation) Also in Spanish

Patient Handouts

  • Tetanus (Medical Encyclopedia) Also in Spanish

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Tetanus

MEDICAL ENCYCLOPEDIA

  • Tetanus

Related Health Topics

  • Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis Vaccines
  • Vaccines

National Institutes of Health

The primary NIH organization for research on Tetanus is the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

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The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.

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