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Tetanus
Tetanus is a serious infection caused by bacteria that enter through wounds, releasing a toxin that causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms. It is preventable by vaccination.
Causes & risk factors
- Clostridium tetani bacteria found in soil and dust
- Bacteria entering through cuts, punctures or burns
- Deep or dirty wounds (nails, thorns, animal bites)
- Being unvaccinated or overdue for a booster
- Wounds contaminated with soil or manure
Common symptoms
- Jaw stiffness (lockjaw)
- Muscle stiffness and painful spasms
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever and sweating
- Fast heartbeat
Tests & diagnosis
- Diagnosed mainly from symptoms and wound history
- Wound assessment
- No single blood test confirms it
- Checking vaccination status
Treatment & management
- This is a medical emergency needing hospital care
- Tetanus immunoglobulin and wound cleaning
- Medicines to control spasms
- Antibiotics and supportive intensive care
- Prevention: keep tetanus vaccination up to date
When to see a doctor urgently
- Muscle stiffness or spasms after a wound — call your local emergency number now
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing — emergency
- A deep or dirty wound if you are not up to date on tetanus — seek care same day
- Any doubt about your vaccination after an injury
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about tetanus. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How often do I need a tetanus booster?
Boosters are generally given every 10 years, and sometimes after a dirty wound if you are overdue. Check with your doctor.
Is tetanus contagious?
No. It is not spread person to person. It comes from bacteria in the environment entering a wound.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.