Signs of tetanus in finger

Tetanus is a serious, life-threatening condition caused by bacteria getting into a wound. It's rare in the UK because the tetanus vaccine has been part of the routine vaccination schedule for many years.

Check if you're at risk of tetanus

There is a risk of tetanus if soil or manure containing bacteria gets into a wound, such as a bite, burn or scratch.

Tetanus is rare, but the chances of getting it are higher if:

• you have not been fully vaccinated (the tetanus vaccine has routinely been given since 1961)
• you have a large or deep wound
• the wound is very dirty or there is something stuck in the wound

Check with your GP surgery if you’re not sure you’ve been fully vaccinated against tetanus.

Symptoms of tetanus

The symptoms of tetanus usually start around 4 to 21 days after infection.

Most people get symptoms after about 10 days.

The symptoms of tetanus include:

• a stiff jaw (lockjaw), which can make opening your mouth difficult
• painful muscle spasms, often in your back, tummy, arms, legs, hands and feet
• difficulty breathing
• swallowing problems
• a hig
  when do i have to worry about tetanus
  when do you worry about tetanus