Tetanus

Tetanus is a serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This bacterium produces a poisonous substance (toxin) that can lead to muscle spasms, amongst other symptoms. The disease often has severe consequences and can sometimes even lead to death.

The tetanus bacterium enters the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut or wound. It is not transmitted from one person to another. You can become infected if an open wound comes into contact with soil, road dirt, dust, or manure. Even a small cut is enough to become infected. A bite from an animal that has dirt in its mouth can also lead to a tetanus infection. The disease can be treated with high doses of antibodies. A tetanus vaccination is often administered as part of the treatment.

Where does tetanus occur?

The tetanus bacterium is found worldwide in the soil and in the digestive systems of some mammals, including humans, horses, and cows. In the Netherlands, the disease is rarely seen because many people get vaccinated. However, in countries with lower vaccination rates, it still occurs quite frequently.

What are the symptoms?

The time between exposure and the appearance of the first symptoms typically ranges from three to twenty-one days, but it can sometimes extend to a few months. Common symptoms include:

• Stiffness around the contaminated wound
• Painful muscle cramps
• Breathing problems
• Trouble swallowing
• Muscle spasms or arching of the body
• Bone fractures
• Issues with the heart

How to prevent tetanus?

In the Netherlands, all children have received the tetanus vaccination, since this vaccination has been part of the National Immunisation Programme since the 1950s. This vaccination helps the body produce antibodies in the blood. Without vaccination, there are no antibodies to fight off the disease. Individuals who have had tetanus in the past are not automatically protected.

The tetanus vaccine is often administered in combination with vaccines for diphtheria, polio, and, during childhood, whooping cough (pertussis). This combined vaccine is known as the DTaP/IPV vaccine. If you are travelling to a destination where tetanus is prevalent, it is recommend to get a booster shot. You can get vaccinated against tetanus at KLM Health Services, please feel free to make an appointment at one of our Travel Clinics.

More information

Would you like to know more about tetanus? Please visit the RIVM information page: Tetanus | RIVM.