Tetanus (Lockjaw)

Tetanus is an uncommon but very dangerous disease — of every 10 people who get it, as
many as 2 will die. Thanks in part to tetanus vaccines, deaths from tetanus in the United
States have dropped by 99% since 1947.

There are 4 vaccines that include protection against tetanus:

 The DTaP vaccine protects young children from diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping

cough
 The DT vaccine protects young children from diphtheria and tetanus
 The Tdap vaccine protects preteens, teens, and adults from tetanus, diphtheria, and
whooping cough
 The Td vaccine protects preteens, teens, and adults from tetanus and diphtheria

Why are tetanus vaccines important?

Because of the vaccines, tetanus is rare — but people still get the disease. When they
do, the complications can be serious and even deadly. People who get it can have
trouble breathing and painful muscle spasms that are strong enough to break bones.
Tetanus can also cause paralysis (not being able to move).

There’s no cure for tetanus. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent tetanus.

What is tetanus?
Who needs to get tetanus vaccines?
Who should not get tetanus vaccines?
What are the side effects of tetanus vaccines?
Where can I get more information about tetanus vaccines?
Last Reviewed: January 2020
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Get vaccinated

Getting vaccinated is easy. Vaccines are available at the doctor’s office and many pharmacies
— and most are covered by insurance.

Find out how to get vaccinated.

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