"Very serious": The hidden danger that is tetanus

What is tetanus and how do you get it?  

• Tetanus is a serious, life-threatening disease, caused by a bacteria called Clostridium tetani.  
• It's found in the environment – soil, dust, and animal faeces.  
• It enters the body through a break in the skin – puncture wounds (standing on a nail), a cut, burn, or wound contaminated with soil.  
• Especially deep puncture wounds but can occur from relatively minor injuries.  
• Working in the garden or around rusty metal is a particular risk - you cannot catch it from someone else.  

Is tetanus common?  

• Tetanus is rare in New Zealand due to vaccination of children. 
• Cases still occur – around one or two a year, if someone's not fully vaccinated or the protection's worn off. 
• Around the world it's a significant problem, causing 50,000 deaths a year.  
• With inadequate vaccination you are at risk.  

What happens if you get tetanus?  

• The bacteria produces a powerful toxin that attacks the nervous system. 
• Early symptoms can include muscle stiffness, weakness, cramps, and difficulty opening the mouth, aka 'lockjaw'.  
• Spasms spread to the neck, back, and abdomen, and swallowing and breathing become difficult.  
• It causes changes in heart rate and blood pressure.  
• Tetanus is a medical emergency; even with hospital intensive care, it can be fatal.

Is there treatment?  

• Prevention is much better than treatment – once tetanus develops, there is no simple cure.  
• If you have a wound, a doctor or nurse cleans it, removes damaged tissue, and often give a tetanus vaccine booster.  
• Tetanus immunoglobulin (antibodies) that neutralise tetanus toxin may be given if someone is not immunised. 
• Hospital treatment is often complex, including antibiotics, medicines for spasms/pain, and support for breathing. 
• Recovery can take weeks or months.  
• If someone has a deep or dirty wound and is unsure of their vaccination history, they should seek medical advice promptly.  
• At the age of 45, if you are unsure of immunisation history or not had previous booster, you can have a free booster.  
• Talk to your GP.  

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