Lock Jaw

Overview

Tetanus is a bacterial disease that affects the nervous system. It is commonly known as lock jaw because it causes severe muscle spasms, leading to "locking" of the jaw so the patient cannot open his/her mouth or swallow. In extreme cases, it can lead to death by suffocation. Thanks to widespread childhood immunization, tetanus is now a rare disease in North America. However, it is very important for adults to receive a booster shot every decade to ensure continuous protection.

Symptoms

Common first signs of tetanus are a headache and muscular stiffness in the jaw (lockjaw) followed by:
  • stiffness of the neck
  • difficulty in swallowing
  • rigidity of abdominal muscles
  • spasms
  • sweating
  • fever

Symptoms usually begin around 8 days after infection, but may range in onset from 3 days to 3 weeks.

Causes

Tetanus is contracted through a cut or wound that becomes contaminated with tetanus bacteria. The bacteria can get in through even a tiny pinprick or scratch, but deep puncture wounds or cuts like those made by nails or knives are especially susceptible to infection with tetanus. Tetanus bacteria are present worldwide and are commonly found in soil, dust and manure.

Treatment

Treatment for tetanus may include:

  • medications (to control spasms)
  • thorough cleaning of the wound
  • a course of tetanus antitoxin injections
  • a tracheostomy (a breathing tube inserted surgically in the windpipe) in severe cases where there are respiratory problems.

Prevention

Vaccination is the best way to protect against tetanus. A combination vaccine, called the Td booster, protects against both tetanus and diphtheria. A Td booster is recommended every 10 years. Adolescents and adults who have never received immunization against tetanus should start with a 3-dose primary series given over 7-12 months.

Who should get Td vaccine?

  • Adolescents and adults who have not had a Td booster in the last 10 years.
  • Anyone who has recovered from tetanus (lockjaw) disease.
  • Adolescents and adults who did not receive a primary series of immunization against tetanus and diphtheria during childhood.

Tetanus vaccine and the combination Td vaccine are very safe and effective. When side effects do occur, they usually include soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site and a slight fever. As with any medicine, there are very small risks that serious problems could occur after getting a vaccine such as an allergic reaction or neurologic condition. However, the potential risks associated with tetanus disease are much greater than the potential risks associated with the tetanus vaccine. You cannot get tetanus from the vaccine.

Additional Resources:

Immunization : Tetanus and Diphtheria (Td) Vaccine (Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care)