TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Causes of Tetanus
2. Risk Factors for Tetanus
3. Symptoms of Tetanus
4. Diagnosis of Tetanus
5. Treatment for Tetanus
6. Tetanus Complications
7. Tetanus Prevention

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Tetanus is a serious nervous system condition caused by toxin-producing bacteria. It is characterized by muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck, and is commonly referred to as “lockjaw.”

Severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications. While there is no cure, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications until the effects of the toxin subside.

Despite the availability of vaccines, tetanus remains a threat to individuals who are unvaccinated or have not kept up with their boosters.

Causes of Tetanus

Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. Its spores can survive in the environment for long periods and are commonly found in soil and animal waste but may be present almost anywhere.

Once inside the body, the bacteria multiply and produce tetanospasmin, a powerful neurotoxin. 

This toxin travels through the bloodstream and interferes with signals between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles, causing muscle stiffness and spasms.

The bacteria typically enter the body through cuts or puncture wounds. That’s why properly cleaning wounds is crucial to prevent infection.

Risk Factors for Tetanus

The main risk factor is not being vaccinated or missing a tetanus booster every 10 years. Other risk factors include:

• Wounds contaminated with soil or manure
• Foreign objects in wounds (e.g., nails, splinters)
• Skin infections in people with diabetes
• Infected umbilical cords in infants born to unvaccinated mothers
• Sharing unsterile needles for drug use

Symptoms of Tetanus

The average incubation period is 10 days but can range from 3 to 21 days. The most common form is generalized tetanus. Symptoms typically begin in the jaw and move downward.

Common signs include:

• Painful muscle spasms and stiffness in the jaw (lockjaw)
• Tight facial muscles causing a forced grin
• Neck stiffness and painful spasms
• Difficulty swallowing
• Stiff abdominal muscles

As the disease progresses, symptoms may worsen and include:

• Arched back and stiff neck
• Rigid legs
• Arms pulled upward
• Clenched fists
• Difficulty breathing due to chest and neck muscle stiffness

Triggers like sound, touch, light, or drafts may worsen spasms. Additional symptoms can include:

• High or low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Fever
• Excessive sweating

Diagnosis of Tetanus

Doctors typically diagnose tetanus based on symptoms and a physical exam, especially evaluating muscles and the nervous system.

In some cases, they may take a wound sample or conduct further testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment for Tetanus

Tetanus treatment may include:

• Tetanus immune globulin (TIG) to neutralize toxins not yet bound to nerves
• Medications such as Benzodiazepines for muscle spasms and antibiotics to kill Clostridium tetani
• Intensive care for severe cases, including ventilators or feeding tubes

Prevention through vaccination is still the best approach.

Tetanus Complications

Tetanus may lead to severe complications such as:

• Breathing difficulties from laryngeal spasm or chest muscle stiffness
• Pulmonary embolism from blood clots traveling to the lungs
• Aspiration pneumonia from inhaling food or fluids during spasms
• Bone fractures due to intense convulsions
• Death from blocked airways or damage to nerves controlling vital functions

Tetanus Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent tetanus.

In many countries, including Indonesia, tetanus vaccination is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule as part of the DPT vaccine (Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus), administered in five doses at ages 2, 4, 6, 18 months, and 4–6 years.

For children over 7 and adults, a Td vaccine (Tetanus-Diphtheria) is recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity.

Good wound hygiene is also essential in preventing tetanus infections.

For convenience, you can schedule a home visit for tetanus vaccination via Halodoc.

Don’t hesitate to contact our English-speaking doctor on Halodoc to get more detailed information about tetanus.

You can reach a doctor directly from your smartphone using the Halodoc app. Doctors are available 24 hours to answer your questions.

You can also purchase 100% original and trusted health products from the Halodoc Health Store. No need to leave home, delivery in just 1 hour!

So, what are you waiting for? Download the Halodoc app on Play Store or App Store today!

References:
Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2025. Tetanus.
Johns Hopkins Medicine. Accessed 2025. Tetanus.
Medical News Today. Accessed 2025. Everything You Need to Know About Tetanus.