Pathogen
The bacterium Clostridium tetani produces a highly potent neurotoxin.
Patient services
Tetanus (lockjaw)
Source: RKI vaccines A–Z. Patient information, not medical advice.
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Transmission
Bacterial spores from soil, dust or animal faeces enter the body through wounds — even tiny ones.
Clinical picture
Painful, cramp-like muscle stiffness, starting in the jaw ("lockjaw") and neck. Paralysis of the respiratory muscles. Lethality up to 20 % even with intensive care.
Vaccine protection
The tetanus toxoid vaccine is nearly 100 % effective. Very well tolerated, local reactions at the injection site possible.
Who should be vaccinated?
Everyone: primary immunisation in infancy, booster every 10 years.
Vaccination schedule (STIKO)
- 1. Dosis (2 Monate)
- 2. Dosis (4 Monate)
- 3. Dosis (11 Monate)
- Auffrischung (5–6 J.)
- Auffrischung (9–16 J.)
Booster: Alle 10 Jahre, kombiniert mit Diphtherie (Td) bzw. Tdap.
Further information on Tetanus (lockjaw): RKI vaccines A–Z.
