What should you know about tetanus from wood?

Tetanus is caused by a toxin made by bacteria that can live in soil, dust, and animal waste. A splinter, nail, or rough branch may push material deep into a wound. The concern is greater when the wound is punctured, dirty, deep, crushed, or difficult to clean. Rust is not the cause of tetanus, although a rusty object may be dirty and may create a puncture. Most wood injuries do not lead to tetanus, but vaccination history and the wound's condition affect the decision about preventive care.

Wash your hands, then rinse the wound under clean running water and gently remove visible dirt or a loose splinter with clean tools. Do not force a deeply embedded piece out or pour harsh chemicals into the wound. Cover it with a clean dressing and change the dressing if it becomes wet or dirty. Contact a clinic promptly if the puncture is deep, contaminated, caused by an object that broke inside the skin, or if you cannot recall your tetanus vaccinations. A clinician may clean the wound further and advise whether a booster or other prevention is needed. Read more about Tetanus Vaccination.

Seek urgent medical care for trouble swallowing, jaw stiffness, painful muscle spasms, unusual body stiffness, or breathing difficulty. These can be warning signs of tetanus and should not be watched at home. Seek same-day care for a deep or dirty puncture, a wound with spreading redness or discharge, fever, worsening pain, loss of feeling, or a retained splinter. Bring any vaccination record if available and explain when and how the injury happened.

Ask whether the wound needs professional cleaning, whether your tetanus vaccine history is adequate for this injury, and what changes should prompt a return visit. Mention when your last tetanus-containing vaccine was given, whether the wound was dirty or deep, and whether any object remains under the skin.