Tetanus

Alternative names:

lockjaw

Prevention:

Tetanus is completely preventable by active tetanus immunization (vaccine). Tetanus immunizations are begun in infancy as a series of DPT shots (D = diphtheria, P = pertussis or whooping cough, and T = tetanus). Boosters are given to teenagers and older adults as Td shots (adult tetanus and diphtheria) or singly as just tetanus. Immunization is considered to provide protection for ten years. Studies in the army suggest that good protection persists up to 12 years after the last immunization. Older teenagers and adults who have been injured, especially puncture type injuries, should receive booster immunizations for tetanus if their last immunization was more than 10 years previously. Thorough cleaning of all injuries and wounds and the removal of dead or severely injured tissue (debridement) when appropriate may reduce the risk of developing tetanus.