It often causes heart and nerve problems. Although diphtheria is rare in the U.S., it is still a threat, since it is common in the other countries. Tetanus is a severe, often fatal disease. The bacteria that causes tetanus are widely distributed in soil and street dust, are found in the waste of many animals, and are very resistant to heat and germ-killing cleaners. People who get tetanus suffer from stiffness and spasm of the muscles.
Some people go into a coma and die.
Tetanus is infectious, but not contagious, so unlike other vaccine-preventable disease. Because tetanus bacteria is widespread in the environment, tetanus can only be prevented by immunization. Mumps is usually a mild viral disease. However, rare conditions such as swelling of the brain, nerves and spinal cord can lead to serious side effects such as paralysis, seizures, and fluid in the brain. Infection with this bacteria can be fetal if it occurs in a person who has other medical problems such as a heart condition, diabetes or lung disease.