Tetanus is a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani, a bacterium that produces a powerful toxin affecting the nervous system. This toxin leads to painful muscle contractions and stiffness, often starting with the jaw, which is why tetanus is commonly known as “lockjaw.” While rare in the UK due to widespread vaccination, tetanus remains a serious global concern, especially in areas with poor medical infrastructure. The good news is that tetanus is entirely preventable through vaccination. If you are unsure about your tetanus immunity or are due for a booster, book your tetanus vaccination in London today at TravelJabs4U.
Tetanus bacteria are found everywhere in the environment, particularly in soil, dust, and animal faeces. The bacteria enter the body through open wounds, cuts, or puncture injuries (such as from nails or splinters), animal bites or scratches, burns and wounds contaminated with dirt, and injection drug use.
Tetanus is not contagious, meaning it cannot be passed from person to person. However, even small cuts or minor injuries can lead to infection if they are not properly cleaned and treated. The risk is higher in environments where access to clean medical care is limited, and vaccination rates are low.
While tetanus can occur anywhere, certain groups of people are at higher risk, including:
Travellers – those heading to areas where vaccination programmes are less established.
Outdoor workers – such as farmers, construction workers, and gardeners.
Individuals who sustain wounds – particularly wounds that may have been exposed to soil or animal waste.
Those who inject drugs – this puts you more at risk of serious illness.
Older adults – who may not have received a booster in many years.
Since tetanus bacteria are commonly found in the environment, anyone can be at risk if they suffer an injury and are not protected through vaccination. This is why staying up to date with your tetanus vaccine is essential.
Tetanus symptoms usually appear between 7 to 10 days after infection but can take as little as three days or as long as several weeks to develop. Symptoms include:
– Jaw cramping and stiffness (lockjaw)
– Sudden, painful muscle spasms, often starting in the abdomen
– Stiffness in the neck, arms, and legs
– Difficulty swallowing
– Fever and sweating
– Increased heart rate
– Breathing difficulties in severe cases
If left untreated, tetanus can lead to severe complications such as fractures from intense muscle spasms, difficulty breathing due to airway obstruction, pneumonia, and, in extreme cases, death. The fatality rate is particularly high among unvaccinated individuals or those who do not receive timely medical treatment.
Tetanus is entirely preventable through vaccination. The tetanus vaccine is typically administered as part of a combined immunisation with diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough), known as the DTaP or Tdap vaccine. In the UK, tetanus vaccination is part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. However, because immunity wanes over time, booster doses are required to maintain protection.
Adults should receive a tetanus booster every 10 years to ensure continued immunity, especially those working in high-risk environments such as farmers, construction workers, and healthcare professionals. Travellers visiting areas with limited healthcare access should ensure their tetanus vaccine is up to date before departure. Additionally, anyone who sustains a wound or injury should check their vaccination status and seek medical advice if they are unsure when they last received a tetanus shot.
If you suffer a deep or dirty wound, follow these steps to reduce your risk of tetanus infection:
1. Clean the wound immediately – Rinse with clean water and mild soap.
2. Apply antiseptic – Use an antibacterial ointment to help prevent infection.
3. Cover the wound – Keep it protected with a sterile bandage.
4. Seek medical attention – If your wound is deep or contaminated with dirt, animal faeces, or rust, visit a healthcare professional. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, you may need a tetanus booster or, in severe cases, tetanus immune globulin (TIG) for additional protection.
If you need a tetanus vaccination in London, TravelJabs4U provides fast and convenient vaccination services at multiple locations. Whether you require a booster dose before travelling or urgent protection after an injury, our trained professionals are here to help.
Tetanus is a serious yet preventable infection, and staying up to date with your vaccinations is crucial. Whether you are a traveller, an outdoor worker, or someone who wants to stay protected, a simple booster can provide peace of mind and safeguard your health.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – ensure your immunity is up to date. Book your tetanus vaccination in London today with TravelJabs4U and travel with confidence.
If you haven’t had a tetanus booster in the last 10 years, or you have sustained an injury that may put you at risk, contact us today. We offer the tetanus vaccine in London to keep you protected.
Use our simple booking form to book an appointment today!
