Tetanus treatment: Immediate steps and what to expect

Tetanus is caused by a toxin from bacteria that live in soil and rust. If you get a deep cut, puncture, or a wound with dirt on it, act fast. Quick care can stop tetanus before it starts. This guide explains what health professionals do and what you can expect if tetanus is suspected.

First aid and early care

Clean the wound right away. Wash with soap and running water for several minutes. Remove visible dirt or foreign material—don’t try to dig out things deep inside at home. Cover the wound with a clean bandage and see a clinic or emergency department if the cut is deep, caused by an animal bite, a dirty object, or if you can’t clean it well.

If your last tetanus shot was more than 5 years ago and the wound is severe, health workers usually give a booster shot (tetanus toxoid) right away. For minor wounds, the booster is usually given if your last shot was more than 10 years ago. Tell staff when you had your last tetanus vaccine—if you don’t know, they may treat you as unvaccinated.

Medical treatment you may get

Health providers may use these treatments depending on how the wound looks and whether symptoms appear:

• Tetanus immunoglobulin (antitoxin) — given to neutralize toxin already in the body. This is common when tetanus symptoms are present or for serious wounds in unvaccinated people.
• Antibiotics — metronidazole is commonly used to reduce the bacteria that produce the toxin. Antibiotics alone do not reverse symptoms but stop further toxin production.
• Wound cleaning and debridement — doctors will remove dead tissue and foreign matter to lower the chance of bacterial growth.
• Muscle spasm control — severe tetanus causes painful spasms and stiffness. Benzodiazepines and other drugs can relax muscles and reduce spasms. In serious cases, patients may need a breathing tube and ICU care.
• Supportive care — fluids, pain control, and monitoring for complications like breathing problems or heart issues.

Tetanus doesn’t heal quickly. Even with care, recovery can take weeks to months. Vaccination prevents it, so completing the vaccine series is crucial after treatment if you’re not fully immunized.

When should you seek emergency care? Go to the ER if a wound is deep, dirty, from an animal bite, or if you develop jaw stiffness, trouble swallowing, neck or abdominal stiffness, or muscle spasms. If you’ve never had a tetanus shot or aren’t sure, tell the medical staff right away.

Prevention is simple: keep tetanus vaccines up to date. Adults need a booster every 10 years, and some wounds call for an earlier booster. Clean wounds fast and see a clinician for any concern. That short trip to urgent care can prevent a serious illness later.