Things to know about tetanus

Tetanus is a disease of the nervous system characterised by muscle spasms caused by toxins produced by an anaerobic bacterium called Clostridium tetani (C. tetani) found in soil. These muscle spasms may occur frequently in the jaw and neck but may also be generalised throughout the body. The diagnosis can be made clinically and by history. The causative agent of tetanus, C. tetani, produces toxins that trigger muscle contractions after contamination from saliva, faeces, contaminated products and soil. Tetanus is a disease that can be prevented by vaccination. In case of a possible tetanus risk in the patient, tetanus prophylaxis planned according to the type of injury after cleaning the wound prevents the disease.