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Tetanus—sometimes called lockjaw—is a rare but serious infection that can cause severe muscle spasms, difficulty breathing, and even death if untreated. The good news? Tetanus is preventable with routine tetanus shots.
If you’re unsure whether you're due for a tetanus booster or what the symptoms look like, this guide breaks it down for you, including when to seek care from a provider at BASS Medical Group.
What Is Tetanus?
Tetanus is caused by a toxin released from Clostridium tetani, a bacterium found in soil, dust, and animal waste. When this bacterium enters the body through a wound or cut, it releases a toxin that attacks the nervous system, leading to painful muscle contractions and spasms.
There is no cure for tetanus once symptoms begin—treatment focuses on managing complications. That’s why prevention with a tetanus shot is so important.
How Do You Get Tetanus?
Tetanus is not spread person-to-person. It typically enters the body through:
- Deep or dirty wounds
- Rusty nails or splinters
- Animal bites
- Burns
- Injuries contaminated with soil, feces, or saliva
- Injection with non-sterile needles
Unvaccinated individuals—or those who haven’t had a tetanus booster in the last 10 years—are most at risk.
Tetanus Symptoms
Tetanus symptoms usually appear 3 to 21 days after exposure (average: 10 days) and begin around the jaw and neck before progressing through the body.
Common symptoms include:
- Stiff jaw or difficulty opening the mouth ("lockjaw")
- Painful muscle spasms, especially in the neck, back, or abdomen
- Difficulty swallowing
- Rigid limbs or back arching
- Breathing problems due to chest or throat muscle tension
- Fever, rapid heartbeat, or excessive sweating
Muscle spasms can be triggered by sound, touch, or light and may last for several minutes at a time.
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When Do You Need a Tetanus Shot?
Tetanus shots are given as part of the DTaP vaccine in childhood and followed by boosters throughout adulthood.
Tetanus shot schedule:
- DTaP: Given in 5 doses between 2 months and 6 years of age
- Tdap booster: Given at age 11–12
- Td or Tdap booster: Every 10 years as an adult
- Additional booster: If you have a high-risk wound and it’s been 5+ years since your last shot
Should You Get a Tetanus Shot After a Cut?
It depends on:
- Your vaccination history
- The type of wound
If you’ve had a tetanus shot in the last 10 years and your wound is minor and clean, you’re likely protected. However, for deeper wounds—especially those involving dirt, rust, or animal bites—you may need a booster if it’s been 5 or more years.
Always consult with a healthcare provider after an injury to assess your tetanus risk.
Protect Yourself with a Tetanus Shot at BASS Medical Group
Tetanus is preventable—but only if you stay up to date on your vaccinations. If it’s been 10 years (or you're not sure), it's time to check in.
At BASS Medical Group, our Primary Care Providers offer routine vaccinations and boosters to help protect you and your family from avoidable illnesses like tetanus.
Schedule your tetanus shot today at one of our convenient locations across Walnut Creek, Oakland, Berkeley, and the Greater Bay Area.
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