What should you know about human tetanus?

The bacteria can live in soil, dust and animal waste. They may enter through a puncture, burn, bite or wound contaminated with dirt. The toxin affects nerves that control muscles, causing painful tightening and spasms. Jaw stiffness gives tetanus its other name, lockjaw; swallowing or breathing can also become difficult. Tetanus does not usually spread from person to person.

Clean a wound promptly with running water and remove visible dirt without digging into the tissue. Seek medical advice after a deep, dirty, crush or bite wound, especially if your vaccination history is incomplete or uncertain. A clinician may recommend a booster vaccine and, for some wounds, additional protective treatment. Keep routine vaccinations up to date; see the Tetanus Vaccination guide for prevention planning.

Get urgent medical help for jaw stiffness, painful muscle spasms, trouble swallowing, breathing difficulty or rapidly worsening stiffness after an injury. Do not wait for symptoms to settle at home. A wound can look small while still allowing bacteria to enter, so an uncertain vaccination history is a reason to contact a healthcare professional promptly.

Ask which tetanus vaccines are recorded for you, whether this wound needs a booster or extra protection, and how to monitor the injury while it heals.