Onset of tetanus: what to know

Tetanus is caused by a toxin made by bacteria that can enter through a puncture, cut, burn, bite, or wound contaminated with soil or debris. Early symptoms may include stiffness in the jaw or neck, trouble swallowing, abdominal rigidity, and muscle tightening or spasms. The wound may appear minor or may have healed, so its appearance does not rule out tetanus.

Tetanus is uncommon where vaccination is routine, but protection can decrease when recommended doses or boosters are missed. A wound and vaccination history should therefore be considered together.

Wash the wound with clean running water, remove visible dirt without probing deeply, and cover it with a clean dressing. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if the wound is deep, puncture-shaped, dirty, crushed, or caused by an animal or object, or if you are unsure about your vaccination history. A clinician may clean the wound further and recommend tetanus vaccination or other preventive treatment.

Go to emergency care immediately for jaw locking, difficulty swallowing or breathing, painful widespread muscle spasms, severe stiffness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Do not wait for a wound to become painful or infected. Tetanus can affect breathing muscles and requires hospital treatment and monitoring.

Ask whether your wound needs tetanus vaccination, whether your previous doses provide current protection, what symptoms require emergency help, and how to care for the wound while it heals.