Tetanus is a bacterial infection that causes muscle spasms, attacking the central nervous system, and can lead to death by suffocation, if not treated. Also known as “lockjaw”, this occurs when a person gets a cut or wound, and tetanus bacteria, which are common in soil, dust and manure, infect the area.
Tetanus symptoms usually show up about a week after initial infection. The most common symptom is a stiff jaw, which may become locked (hence: lockjaw.) Other conditions include:
- muscle stiffness spreading to the neck, arms and legs
- headaches
- trouble swallowing
- sweating
- fever
Tetanus is a Preventable Disease
Fortunately, tetanus is a preventable disease today, thanks to the tetanus vaccine. There are several tetanus vaccine combinations available, which may also include protection against diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough.)
The Center for Disease Control recommends that infants and children receive their initial vaccinations at the pediatrician. Adults should receive a tetanus booster shot every 10 years. If suffering a deep puncture wound, a booster shot is recommended, even if you’ve had one within the 10-year span.
Our Urgent Care Walk-In Clinics in Omaha, Bennington, West Omaha, Rockbrook, Crossroads & Bellevue, NE
Our staff works to provide prompt, personal, and professional care for all of our patients. We strive to provide the attention patients need in as quick a time as possible. Urgent Care Clinics in Omaha & Bellevue, Nebraska has three locations in the Omaha metropolitan area. Our three walk-in clinics are:
- Rockbrook Urgent Care
- Crossroads Urgent Care
- Bellevue Urgent Care
- West Omaha Urgent Care
- Bennington Urgent Care
Disclaimer
The information contained on this webpage is for educational purposes as well as to provide general information and general understanding of the pertinent medical issue only, not to provide a specific diagnosis. This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. By using this blog/web site you understand there is no doctor patient relationship between you and the blog/web site publisher. The information included on this site should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a licensed medical professional in your state. Neither Urgent Care Network, its subsidiaries, affiliates, assignees or successors in interest, nor any other party assume liability for loss or damage due to reliance on content of this blog/web site. If you are experiencing a severe medical issue, you should seek emergency assistance immediately.