Tetanus

Symptoms

The symptoms of tetanus usually start around 4 to 21 days after infection. Most people get symptoms after about 10 days.

The symptoms of tetanus include:

• a stiff jaw (lockjaw), which can make opening your mouth difficult
• painful muscle spasms, often in your back, tummy, arms, legs, hands and feet
• difficulty breathing
• swallowing problems
• a high temperature
• sweating
• a fast heartbeat

• fits (seizures)
  

Causes

Tetanus is caused by bacteria getting into a wound.

Risk Factors

There is a risk of tetanus if soil or manure containing bacteria gets into a wound, such as a bite, burn or scratch.

Tetanus is rare, but the chances of getting it are higher if:

• you have not been fully vaccinated 
• you have a large or deep wound

• the wound is very dirty or there is something stuck in the wound
  

Treatment Options

If you have tetanus, or a wound that has a high risk of being infected, you’ll be treated in hospital.

Treatments for tetanus include:

• cleaning the wound – any dirt, soil or dead tissue will be removed
• an injection with a medicine called tetanus immunoglobulin
• other medicines, such as antibiotics and medicines to help control painful muscle spasms and stiffness
• help with breathing using a machine that gives you oxygen

Prevention Tips

The best way to avoid getting tetanus is to make sure you're fully vaccinated against it.

When To See A Doctor

Urgently see a doctor if you have a wound, such as a bite, burn or scratch and:

• you've not been fully vaccinated against tetanus (or you’re not sure if you have)
• you've tried to clean the wound but there's still dirt or soil in it
• the wound is hot or swollen (it may also be painful, red or darker than the surrounding skin)
• you have a high temperature, or you feel hot and shivery