What Is Tetanus? 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, Clostridium tetani
, 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 Is the
Tetanus Vaccine? The tetanus vaccine is an inactivated toxoid (a
substance that can create an antitoxin). There are different
types of the vaccines to prevent tetanus, including: Who Should
Get Vaccinated and When? The DTaP vaccine is generally required
before starting school. The regular immunization schedule is to
give the vaccine at: - 2 months - 4 months - 6 months - 15-18
months - 4-6 years Tdap is routinely recommended for children
aged 11-12 years who