The tetanus bacteria enters the body through a wound that is contaminated with soil or manure. Puncture wounds place one at high risk. People with severe burns can also get the infection. The first symptom is usually a stiffening of the muscles in the neck and face that makes it difficult to open and close your mouth. Problems swallowing, rigid or hard abdominal muscles, twitching, fever and sweating can also occur.
Symptoms usually begin about eight days after an injury.
The more contaminated the wound, the sooner the symptoms may begin. In unvaccinated people, coma, blood clots, pneumonia, and death can occur. If you receive a dirty or deep wound, make sure that it is cleaned well of any soil or contaminants. If you have not had a tetanus vaccination in the last ten years, a vaccination can be given on the day of injury. In cases of deep wounds, heavily contaminated with soil, the patient may also be given a tetanus antitoxin shot or antibiotic.