Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable disease caused by a toxin produced by bacteria called Clostridium tetani. Tetanus spores are found in soil throughout the world. The disease is acquired when material containing these spores, such as soil, contaminates a wound. The toxin released from the bacteria may then attack the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. Tetanus is not spread by person to person contact.
Tetanus-prone wounds include the following:
Tetanus is found worldwide, but is more common in resource-poor countries with low vaccine coverage.
Generalised tetanus is responsible for most cases; this is associated with intense, painful contraction and spasm of skeletal muscles. It usually causes lockjaw (trismus) characterised by facial muscles spasm. Other symptoms include: a stiff neck, forceful arching of the back, abnormal breathing and difficulty swallowing. Even with intensive medical support, death occurs in 10 to 20 percent of cases.
All travellers should be aware of the risk of accidents, thoroughly clean all wounds and seek appropriate medical attention.
Travellers should have completed (or be up-to-date with) a primary UK vaccine course according to the NHS vaccination schedule. If visiting countries where medical facilities may be limited, a booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine is recommended if the last dose was more than ten years ago, even if five doses of vaccine have been given previously.
Vaccine |
Schedule and age range |
Infanrix hexa |
Three doses given one month apart |
Infanrix-IPV DTaP/IPV or |
Pre-school: single dose |
Revaxis |
Single dose booster (offered at 14 years of age). |
Boosterix-IPV |
Single dose booster |