Tetanus Vaccination, 4 Years

Tetanus is a serious disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani.  Toxins (poisonous substances) made by the bacteria affect the nervous system causing painful muscle spasms and breathing problems. Complications include pneumonia (infection of the lungs), bone fractures and muscle rupture.  Death can result from respiratory failure (failure to breathe), hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension (low blood pressure) or heart failure.

Spores of the tetanus bacteria live in manured soil, particularly horse manure. Infection happens when the bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin (or wound).

Wounds that are prone to tetanus are:

• compound fractures (where the broken bone pierces the skin)
• animal bites
• any type of wound (such as from a rusty nail or rose thorn)
• burns or wounds contaminated with soil, dust, horse manure or wood splinters.

This is not a complete list. Please speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your child's risk of tetanus.

Tetanus is not spread from person to person.

Anyone who has not been immunised against tetanus is at risk of infection, in particular:

• people who work with soil, horses, or in dusty environments
• travellers to countries where health services are difficult to access
• people with a high-risk of 'tetanus-prone' wounds.

Other people may be at risk of tetanus infection. Please speak to your doctor regarding your or your child's individual circumstances.

Symptoms generally occur between 3 and 21 days after infection. Most cases happen within 10 days of injury. Generally, symptoms will appear earlier after infection if the wound has been heavily contaminated with Clostridium tetani bacteria.

Early signs and symptoms include an inability to open the mouth (lockjaw), difficulty swallowing, stiffness or pain in the neck, shoulder and back muscles.  Other symptoms can include painful muscle spasms, difficulty breathing and difficulty talking.

Tetanus vaccination is recommended and provided free as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP) and is usually given at 2, 4 and 6 months of age, followed by a booster at 4 years of age and one during adolescence at 12-17 years of age.

In Australia, vaccination against tetanus is provided in combination vaccines that also help to protect against other diseases.

It is important for children to receive tetanus vaccination on time to help protect them against infection and maintain immunity against the disease.

Adults who have never received a tetanus-containing vaccine should see their doctor for further information.

Adults who suffer a tetanus-prone wound should also receive a tetanus booster vaccination if they have not had a booster within the last 5 years. Other people may be at risk of tetanus infection. Please speak to your doctor regarding your individual circumstances.

 A range of side effects may be experienced following vaccination. Discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare professional and inform them if you, or a member of your family experience any side effects as you may need treatment.