tetanus incidence rate

Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
Updated on May 22, 2025
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Tetanus is caused by the invasion of tetanus bacillus into the body through skin and mucous membranes. It generally grows faster in an anaerobic environment, causing specific changes in muscles, and in severe cases, can lead to body spasms and other issues. It usually invades nerves, leading to nerve damage. The incidence rate depends on the patient's health status. If the patient's immunity is low, the incidence rate can reach over 90%, and more than 90% of patients will show symptoms within two weeks of injury, potentially retaining some infectious issues. Therefore, timely handling of tetanus bacillus infections is necessary to achieve the best preventive effects. The incubation period for tetanus is usually about one week.

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Written by Zhang Da Wei
General Surgery
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What should be avoided after a tetanus shot?

Tetanus injections are a common preventive measure in daily life and are generally effective against tetanus bacillus infections. After receiving a tetanus injection, it is necessary to follow a specific diet. Typically, within a week of the injection, it is recommended to avoid spicy and irritating foods, as well as acidic foods. Beverages such as strong tea, coffee, and alcohol should also be avoided as much as possible. Additionally, foods that commonly cause allergic reactions, especially if one is usually allergic to certain foods, should be avoided under these circumstances. This is because if the immune system is weakened, the effectiveness against tetanus bacillus may diminish. Furthermore, it is crucial to get plenty of rest, drink more warm water, consume more fruits and vegetables, avoid strenuous activities, and avoid meat stimulants such as dog and lamb meat, among other considerations.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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How to treat mild tetanus?

The treatment for mild tetanus mainly includes the following aspects: First, to control convulsions, diazepam or midazolam can be administered via muscle injection or intravenous injection. If necessary, phenytoin sodium can be combined to control seizures. If the convulsions last a long time and the symptoms are pronounced, sedative medications can be continuously used to control the convulsions. Second, use large amounts of penicillin and anti-tetanus bacillus treatment to control the infection. Third, maintain a quiet indoor environment to reduce stimuli. Fourth, after the patient regains consciousness, attention should be paid to diet: avoid spicy and stimulating foods, do not smoke or drink alcohol, and it is advised to drink more water and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor)

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Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
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How long does a tetanus shot last?

After receiving a tetanus shot, it generally lasts for about six months. However, if you are injured again after six months and the wound is heavily contaminated, such as with contaminated soil or rust, and the wound is large and deep, it is advised to undergo tetanus treatment again. The purpose of the tetanus shot is to prevent infection by Clostridium tetani, which is an anaerobic bacterium. It tends to proliferate in anaerobic environments and in conditions of heavy contamination by rust and soil. Therefore, if after tetanus treatment the injury is relatively minor, shallow, and comparatively clean, it is sufficient to clean and dress the wound and keep it dry. If the wound is heavily contaminated, large, and deep, it is recommended to administer the tetanus shot again.

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Written by Li Xiao Lin
Emergency Department
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What are the situations for tetanus shots?

Objects carrying tetanus bacillus, or tissues damaged by animals, require tetanus vaccination to prevent tetanus, such as rusty nails, animal claws, animal bites, venomous snake bites, and wounds contaminated by dirt can easily lead to infection by tetanus bacillus. Tetanus is a possible condition, so after an injury, it is necessary to immediately rinse the wound with soap and water or running water to wash away the toxins, which helps reduce the chance of infection. Then thoroughly disinfect the wound with iodophor, which can also reduce infection, and go to the hospital to receive tetanus antitoxin or tetanus immunoglobulin within 24 hours to prevent the onset of tetanus. The incubation period for tetanus is generally three to seven days, but it can be longer, so it is advised to go to the hospital for an injection as soon as possible after injury, to prevent the onset of the disease and avoid serious events.

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Written by Gao Jun
Emergency Surgery
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What should I do if the tetanus test is positive?

A positive tetanus result generally refers to a positive result in the tetanus antitoxin skin test. Tetanus antitoxin is primarily used to prevent tetanus infections. Some patients may experience allergic reactions to tetanus, manifesting as localized swelling, mild fever, and general discomfort during the skin test. In such cases, a desensitization injection method can be chosen, which involves administering the tetanus shot in several doses at intervals. Alternatively, tetanus immunoglobulin can be used, which is more expensive on the market but has the advantage of not requiring a skin test. It can be administered directly, safely, and effectively.