Tetanus is caused by bacteria which are present in soils, dust and manure. The bacteria can enter the body through a wound which may be as small as a pin prick. Tetanus cannot be passed from person to person. Because of effective immunisation, tetanus is now rare in Australia, but it still occurs in adults who have never been immunised against the disease or who have not had their booster vaccines. Diphtheria Diphtheria is caused by bacteria which are found in the mouth, throat and nose.
Diphtheria causes a membrane to grow around the inside of the throat.
This can make it difficult to swallow, breathe and can even lead to suffocation. The bacteria produce a poison which can spread around the body and cause serious complications such as paralysis and heart failure. Diphtheria can be caught through coughs and sneezes from an infected person. Immunisation Tetanus and diphtheria can be prevented with the ADT vaccine. Although it is called 'Adult' Diphtheria and Tetanus vaccine, it is also used to protect children 8 years or older against these diseases.