Tetanus (lockjaw) is a serious disease that causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to "locking" of the jaw so the victim cannot open his mouth or swallow. Tetanus leads to death in about 1 in 10 cases. Several vaccines are used to prevent tetanus among children, adolescents, and adults including DTaP, Tdap, DT, and Td. It's a disease of the nervous system caused by bacteria.

Causes

Enters the body through a break in the skin, so proper hygene is important.

Symptoms

Early symptoms: lockjaw, stiffness in the neck and abdomen, and difficulty swallowing

Later symptoms: severe muscle spasms, generalized tonic seizure-like activity, severe autonomic nervous system disorders

Prevention

Tetanus toxoid (contained in Tdap, DTP, DT, DTaP, and Td vaccines) can prevent this disease. Everyone needs protection from tetanus. If you have not had a booster shot in 10 years or more, you should receive a tetanus shot. If you never had the initial childhood tetanus vaccines, you should receive a series of three tetanus shots.

References

CDC