Tetanus
Tetanus, or lockjaw, is a bacterial disease that affects the nervous system. The bacteria is found in soil, dust and manure, and enters the body through cuts or wounds in the skin. It is not transmitted from person to person. If left untreated, tetanus can cause jaw cramping, sudden, involuntary muscle tightening, painful muscle stiffness, trouble swallowing, fever and sweating, high blood pressure and heart rate.
Information for the General Public
Information for Clinicians/Public Health Departments
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- Case Report Form
- Disease Plan
- Immunization Action Coalition
- Manual for the Surveillance of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases
Information for Schools/Childcare Facilities
Resources
- Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
- KidsHealth
- Mayo Clinic
- MedLine Plus
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
- Utah Immunization Program