Tetanus must be treated immediately. Patients with tetanus are hospitalized and given a toxin-neutralizing injection. Some patients may also require intravenous penicillin and removal of infected tissue. To reduce muscle spasms, doctors often administer muscle relaxants. To assist in breathing, many patients require a ventilator.
Tetanus is prevented with active immunization via the DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus) vaccine in children. Children receive five doses starting at age two months and ending at age six. Tetanus booster shots, which cause the body to produce antibodies to the bacteria, are recommended for adults every 10 years.
Another effective way to prevent tetanus is to clean all wounds as thoroughly as possible with soap and water.
