Tetanus

 FAST FACTS 

• Tetanus is a disease of the nervous system caused by a bacteria that enters the body through a break in the skin.
• One third of all cases of tetanus result in death, especially for people over age 50.
• Early symptoms include: lockjaw; stiffness in the neck and abdomen; and difficulty swallowing.
• Getting the tetanus vaccine can prevent this disease.
• Everyone needs protection from tetanus. If a person has not had a booster shot in 10 years or more -- or has never had the initial 3-shot series - he or she should be vaccinated.
  

• Get informed about tetanus prevention.
• See a physician.

• See a physician or clinic.
• Contact your local, county, or state health department.

 WEB LINKS 

• FDA - Adults Need Tetanus Shots, Too: www.fda.gov/fdac/features/696_tet.html
• National Foundation for Infectious Disease: www.nfid.org
• National Institute on Aging: www.nia.nih.gov
  
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