Page last updated
07 April 2022
Tetanus is uncommon in Australia because of the widespread use of the tetanus vaccine. Anyone who hasn't been immunised against tetanus is at risk.
FAQ
How do you get tetanus?
The bacteria are found mostly in the environment (soil, dust and manure) and get in to the body through breaks in the skin. The most common way spores get in to the body is through injuries from contaminated objects. Certain types of skin breaks are more likely to get infected with tetanus bacteria, such as:
- wounds contaminated with dirt, faeces or saliva
- wounds caused by an object puncturing the skin e.g. nails, needles
- burns
- crush injuries
- injuries with dead tissue.
Sources & Citations
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Tetanus – causes and transmission. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/tetanus/about/causes-transmission.html (accessed 08 March 2022).
3. Victoria State Government – Better Health Channel. Tetanus. Available at: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/HealthyLiving/tetanus (accessed 08 March 2022).
MAT-AU-2200366 Date of preparation March 2022
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