Tetanus

(lockjaw)

Description: An acute disease caused by an exotoxin which affects the skeletal muscles.

Symptoms: Early symptoms: lockjaw, stiffness in the neck and abdomen, and difficulty swallowing Later symptoms:  fever, elevated blood pressure and severe  muscle spasms.

Complications: Death in one third of the cases, especially people over age 50.

Transmission: Enters the body through a break in the skin from a contaminated source, primarily in the soil and intestinal tracks of humans.

Vaccine: Tetanus toxoid (contained in DTP, DT, DTaP & Td vaccines) can prevent this disease.

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Pictures:  CDC pictures / Immunization Action Coalition pictures.