by Shaheen Darr

Created on: June 08, 2008   Last Updated: May 17, 2010

Tetanus is caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani which is found in soil or animal manure. It takes about 21 days for the illness to develop so see your GP if you have either been bitten by a dog or had a deep cut while gardening which has had a chance for dirt to get into it. Even a sharp thorn prick from a rose bush which has caused concern should be checked out by the GP. Once in the bloodstream, the tetanus bacteria releases toxins which affect the nervous system and can cause muscle spasms in the body.

Symptoms of Tetanus include the following:

- Spasms in the mouth causing 'lockjaw'
- Difficulty in breathing and swallowing due to spasms in the throat and chest muscles
- Sensitivity to touch
- High fever and headache
- Sweating
- Diarrhoea

Treatment for Tetanus:

- Antibiotics (metronidazole)
- Diazepam, a drug injected into the veins to control muscle spasms.
- Infected area should be cleaned to remove infection

Prevention of Tetanus:

Immunization is used to create antibodies against the toxin. Children are given a combined DTP/Polio/Hib vaccine as the routine childhood immunisation programme. They are given 5 doses of the vaccine span from the age of two months up to 18 years while adults get 3 doses of TD/Polio monthly and then a dose after every 10 years to top up.

If you are not sure you have had these vaccinations speak to the surgery for advice and a top up vaccine. Some people can have side effects from the tetanus vaccination. These can include some of the following symptoms and if they do not subside, see the doctor to prevent them from deteriorating further.

- Redness or swelling around the area
- Fever
- Aches and pains
- Headache

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