DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Tetanus (Lockjaw)
A serious bacterial infection causing painful muscle spasms and lockjaw. Caused by Clostridium tetani spores found in soil. Not transmitted person-to-person. Fatal in 10-20% of cases even with treatment. Entirely vaccine-preventable.
1.0M
20
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Clinical diagnosis
- 2Wound culture (often negative)
- 3Serum antitoxin levels (rarely used)
- 4Spatula test
- 5Electromyography (EMG)
Prognosis
Guarded. 10-20% mortality even with treatment. Recovery takes weeks to months. Full recovery possible. Spasms may continue for weeks. Prevention far better than treatment.
Prevention
- DTaP vaccination (children)
- Tdap or Td boosters every 10 years
- Wound care
- Tetanus prophylaxis for wounds (vaccine + TIG if indicated)
- Maternal vaccination (prevents neonatal tetanus)
- Clean delivery practices
Research Status
DTaP/Td/Tdap vaccines highly effective. Neonatal tetanus elimination goal. Human tetanus immunoglobulin (TIG) for treatment. Wound care and prophylaxis. No natural immunity - vaccination essential. Research on improved vaccines minimal (current very effective).
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/tetanus
- https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/tetanus
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tetanus
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.