Tetanus
How tetanus is treated
If your doctor thinks youcould develop tetanus but you haven't had any symptoms yet, they will clean any wounds you have and give you an injection of tetanus immunoglobulin . They may also give you a dose of the tetanus vaccine if you haven't been fully vaccinated in the past.
Tetanus immunoglobulin is a medication that contains antibodies that kill the tetanus bacteria. It offers immediate but short-term protection from tetanus.
If you develop symptoms of tetanus, you'll usually need to be admitted to a hospital intensive care unit (ICU) . Treatments you may have include:
- tetanus immunoglobulin and antibiotics
- a procedure to remove any dead tissue or foreign material, such as dirt, from the wound
- medication to relieve muscle stiffness and spasms, such as muscle relaxants and sedatives
- breathing support using a ventilator (a machine that helps you breathe)
- nutrients through a tube connected to the stomach or a drip into a vein
Most people who develop symptoms of tetanus will eventually make a recovery, although this can take several weeks or months. In the UK, around1 in every 7 to 10 people who develop tetanus will die from the condition.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Tetanus is a serious but rare condition caused by bacteria getting into a wound. Read about the symptoms, how it's treated, and the tetanus vaccination.
How you get tetanus
Tetanus is caused by bacteria called Clostridium tetani. These bacteria can survive for a long time outside the body, and are commonly found in soil and the manure of animals such as horses and cows.
Signs and symptoms of tetanus
The symptoms of tetanus usually develop within4 to 21 days after infection. On average, they start after around 10 days. The main symptoms include: stiffness in your jaw muscles (lockjaw) this can
When to seek medical advice
You should contact your GP or visit your nearest minor injuries unit if you're concerned about a wound, particularly if: the wound is deep the wound contains dirt or a foreign object you haven't
How tetanus is treated
If your doctor thinks youcould develop tetanus but you haven't had any symptoms yet, they will clean any wounds you have and give you an injection of tetanus immunoglobulin . They may also give you a
Tetanus vaccination
A tetanus vaccination is given as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme . The full course of the vaccination requires five injections, usuallygiven on the following schedule: the first th
Tetanus vaccination for travel
Tetanus is found throughout the world, so you should ideally make sure you're fully vaccinated before travelling abroad. Contact your GP surgery for advice if you're planning on travelling abroad and
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