LOUISVILLE, Ky. (KT) — While tetanus infections remain rare in the United States, public health officials in Kentucky report a concerning increase in cases in recent years.
In 2025, at least 37 tetanus cases were reported nationwide, marking the highest total in more than a decade. Although the overall risk to the public remains low, officials say the increase shows that tetanus has not been eliminated and still poses a threat of serious illness.
Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil, dust, and animal waste. Infection occurs when the bacteria enter the body through breaks in the skin. While tetanus is often linked to stepping on a rusty nail, most cases result from more common injuries such as cuts, puncture wounds, splinters, burns, crush injuries, or wounds contaminated with dirt or debris. Even small or unnoticed wounds can present a risk if not properly cleaned. Tetanus does not spread from person to person.
“Once inside the body, the bacteria produce a powerful toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to painful muscle stiffness and spasms,” said Dr. Kris Bryant, associate medical director for the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and a pediatric infectious disease specialist with Norton Children’s. “Symptoms often begin with jaw stiffness, or lockjaw, and neck pain, and can progress to difficulty swallowing, whole-body muscle rigidity, and severe spasms that interfere with breathing. Tetanus can be life-threatening without urgent medical care.”
Health officials say the recent rise in tetanus cases is largely tied to gaps in vaccination. While most people receive tetanus vaccines in childhood, protection decreases over time. Adults are advised to receive a booster shot every 10 years, but many fall behind on the recommended schedule.
Treatment for tetanus usually requires hospitalization and focuses on stopping the toxin’s effects, controlling muscle spasms, and supporting breathing and recovery. Care may include medications to neutralize the toxin, antibiotics to clear the infection, muscle relaxants, and intensive supportive treatment. There is no cure for tetanus once symptoms begin, and recovery can take weeks or even months, making prevention especially important.
“The good news is that tetanus is almost entirely preventable,” Bryant added. “Staying up to date on tetanus vaccinations and boosters, properly cleaning and covering skin injuries, and seeking prompt medical care for deep or contaminated wounds can help keep tetanus a rare disease nationwide and in our community.”
Leave a Comment