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tetnus, tetnis
What is tetanus?
Tetanus is a serious, sometimes fatal, disease of the
central nervous system that is caused by an infection of a wound with
spores of the bacterium, Clostridium tetani. The spores live in the
soil. When spores enter the body through a wound, they can multiply and
produce a toxin that affects the nerves that control muscle
activity.
Symptoms
- The most common symptom is stiffness of
the jaw, commonly known as lockjaw. This makes it difficult to
open the mouth.
- Other symptoms include stiffness of
abdominal and back muscles and contraction (spasms) of facial
muscles.
- Sometimes a fast pulse, slight fever,
and severe sweating may occur.
- Eventually painful muscle spasms
develop. If they affect the chest and airways, the person can suffocate.
Prevention
Tetanus can be prevented with a vaccine. Children who
are less than 7 years of age can receive DTaP vaccine - a combined vaccine
against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (whooping cough). Teenagers and
adults should receive booster doses of Td vaccine, a combined vaccine
against tetanus and diphtheria every 10 years.
What should I do if I get a puncture injury?
- Minor wounds: Clean the wound
thoroughly with soap and warm water. Leave the wound uncovered, if
possible.
- Severe injuries: - See a health care
provider for evaluation and treatment (stitches, antibiotics, or a Td
booster shot).
- Pay attention to any signs of infection
such as redness or warmth of the wound, swelling, tenderness, or fever.
If signs of infection develop, consult your health care provider.
If I am injured, how do I know if I need a tetanus shot?
- For a minor injury - Get a
tetanus shot if your last tetanus shot was over 10 years ago.
- For a complicated or contaminated
wound (including puncture wounds) - Get a tetanus shot if
your last tetanus shot was over 5 years ago.
Where can I get a tetanus shot?
- Most health care providers give tetanus
shots.
- Your local health department.
- Hospital emergency rooms
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