Tetanus is a bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani that is usually introduced into the body twhen bacterial spores present in soil enter the body through exposed cuts and grazes . The disease causes severe muscle spasms and is often fatal. It is estimated there are some 1 million cases of tetanus per year with over one third leading to death.

Tetanus symptoms take time to develop, with the incubation period lasting between four and 21 days. Symptoms are caused by the neurotoxin Clostridium tetani which causes muscular spasm of the jaw, otherwise known as lock jaw and can cause muscle spasm of the back as well as other locations. The toxin can also result in the onset of seizures and can lead to death if treatment is not provided. Other symptoms include a high fever, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and heavy sweating.

Areas of risk: The tetanus bacterium can be found in many areas of the world, and is particularly prevalent in China, India, throughout Africa, and in certain South American countries including Peru, Colombia and Ecuador.

Tetanus vaccine is usually given as a triple vaccine (Revaxis). The effect of the vaccine is thought to last for up to 10 years, after which a booster dose is usually recommended.

In the UK, the DTP vaccination against tetanus infection is part of the childhood immunisation schedule.