Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable disease caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium tetani. Tetanus spores are found in soil throughout the world. The disease is acquired when material containing these spores contaminates a wound. The toxin released from the bacteria may then attack the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. Tetanus-prone wounds include the following:

• damaged tissue and deep puncture wounds where there has been contact with soil or manure
• wounds containing foreign bodies
• bone fractures where the skin is broken
• wounds or burns in patients who have infection of the bloodstream
• Tetanus occurs worldwide, but is more common in resource-poor countries where vaccination coverage is low.

Prevention

It is important to be aware of the risk of accidents while travelling. Travellers should thoroughly clean all wounds and seek appropriate medical attention.

Tetanus vaccines

Travellers should have completed (or be up-to-date with) a primary vaccination course according to the NHS vaccination schedule. If travelling to a country where medical facilities may be limited, a booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine is recommended if the last dose was more than ten years ago even if five doses of vaccine have been given previously.