What Is Tetanus? is a bacterial infection that attacks the
nervous system. Tetanus may result in severe muscle spasms, and
this can lead to a condition known as lockjaw, which prevents
the mouth from opening and closing. Tetanus can be fatal.
Tetanus is caused when the bacterium, enters the body through a
break in the skin. The bacterium can come from soil, dust, or
manure. It produces a toxin that causes the illness. In the
United States and other countries with tetanus vaccination
programs, the condition is rare. What Are the Risks Associated
With the Tetanus Vaccine? Most people tolerate the tetanus-
containing vaccines without any trouble. The most common side
effects are pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site,
mild fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, , or
stomachache. Rarely, a fever of more than 102ºF, severe
gastrointestinal problems, or severe headache may occur. Nervous
system problems and severe allergic reactions are extremely
rare. Localized allergic reactions (redness and swell