Symptoms of tetanus infection in humans

Tetanus is a serious illness caused by a toxin made by bacteria that enter damaged skin. Early signs may include tightness in the jaw or neck, difficulty opening the mouth, trouble swallowing, irritability, headache and muscle stiffness around the wound. As the illness progresses, stiffness can spread through the abdomen, back and limbs. Sudden painful spasms may be triggered by touch, noise or light. A wound may look minor or may have healed, so its appearance does not rule out tetanus.

Treat suspected tetanus as an emergency. Keep the person calm and away from bright light or sudden noise while arranging medical help. Do not wait for spasms to become severe, and do not try to force the jaw open or give food and drink if swallowing is difficult. Tell the clinician about the injury, when it happened, wound cleaning, and previous vaccinations. Vaccination is the main preventive protection; see Tetanus Vaccination for related information.

Seek emergency care immediately for jaw locking, swallowing difficulty, breathing changes, widespread stiffness or repeated muscle spasms. A recent dirty, deep or puncture wound also needs prompt medical advice if vaccination history is uncertain, even before symptoms appear. Call local emergency services if spasms affect breathing, consciousness changes, or the person cannot swallow safely.

Ask whether the wound needs further cleaning, whether a tetanus vaccine or other preventive treatment is needed, and which symptoms should prompt immediate return. Share the date and type of injury and any available vaccination record.