Tetanus: Make Sure You and Your Child Are Fully Immunized

Playing outdoors can mean getting cuts that may become infected with bacteria commonly found in soil, including the ones that cause tetanus. Tetanus vaccine can help prevent tetanus disease, commonly known as "lockjaw.

Tetanus is an infection caused by bacteria. When the bacteria invade the body, they produce a toxin, or poison, that causes painful muscle contractions. Tetanus infection mainly affects the neck and abdomen. Tetanus is also called "lockjaw" because it often causes a person's neck and jaw muscles to lock, making it hard to open the mouth or swallow. It can also cause breathing problems, severe muscle spasms, and seizures. Complete recovery can take months. If left untreated, tetanus can be fatal.

Tetanus is different from other vaccine-preventable diseases in that it does not spread from person to person. The bacteria are usually found in soil, dust and manure and enter the body through breaks in the skin – usually cuts or puncture wounds. The bacteria can then produce a toxin that spreads through the body causing the painful symptoms of tetanus. About 3 weeks after exposure, you might get a headache, and have spasms in the jaw muscles. The muscle spasms can be strong enough to break your bones, and you might have to spend several weeks in the hospital under intensive care.

Tetanus Vaccine Protection

Tetanus Vaccines

DTaP: pediatric diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine for children younger than age 7

DT: pediatric diphtheria and tetanus vaccine, used as a substitute for children who cannot tolerate pertussis vaccine

Tdap: tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine for older children and adults

Td: tetanus and diphtheria vaccine for older children and adults

The DTaP vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) is highly effective in preventing tetanus in young children. DTaP shots are recommended for babies at ages 2, 4, and 6 months, and again at 15 through 18 months of age. A DTaP booster is recommended for children ages 4 through 6 years.

Because immunity to tetanus decreases over time, older children need to get the Tdap vaccine. This booster shot contains a full dose of tetanus and lower doses of diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough). The Tdap vaccine is recommended for all 11 through 18 year olds, preferably given to preteens going to the doctor for a regular check-up at age 11 or 12 years.

Adults need to get a booster shot every 10 years to stay protected since immunity to tetanus decreases over time. For adults who haven't gotten Tdap yet, the easiest thing to do is to get Tdap instead of their next regular tetanus (Td) booster. The dose of Tdap can be given earlier than the 10-year mark, so it's a good idea for adults to talk to a doctor about what's best for their specific situation. Make sure you and your child are protected against tetanus