Tetanus, commonly known as lockjaw, is a reaction of the body caused by bacteria. While most people believe you get tetanus from stepping on or scratching or puncturing yourself with a rusty object, tetanus is also found in soils, dust and manure. People of all ages can contract tentanus. Parents should understand what a tetanus vaccine does and what reactions are common to infants following a tetanus injection vaccine.
Definition
Tetanus is the term applied to a infection mainly caused by being scratched by or stepping in something infected with Clostridium tetani bacteria. Infants, children and adults are at risk of contracting tetanus from splinters, infected soils in yards or burn wounds. The infection causes serious muscle spasms. The bacteria cause nerves to release toxins to fight the bacteria, and initiate spasms and seizures. When left untreated, tetanus infection may be life-threatening.
Symptoms
Symptoms, including those observed in infants, include muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the jaw, as well as difficulty breathing due to spasming or constricted chest wall muscles. Sore throat and difficulty swallowing may also be noted. Headache, quickened pulse and stiffness in the arms, legs and neck are also apparent. Left untreated, a tetanus infection may cause paralysis.
Immunization
Infants may receive a tetanus immunization along with their pertussis, also known as whooping cough, and diphtheria vaccine routines. Called a DTP, or DTaP series, these immunizations protect infants starting at 6 weeks to 6 years of age without the pertussis. If the infant is believed to be at risk for a tetanus infection, the pediatrician may suggest a tetanus booster shot following an injury. Very small amounts of the tetanus vaccine are delivered into the upper arm through injection at 2, 4 and 6 months of age, and a second booster at between 15 and 18 months of age.
Reactions
Localized reactions to infants such as a slight redness around the injection site are common, as are slight swelling and soreness. These symptoms fade after a day or two. Some infants may present with a low fever. Some may feel tired and achy. Any immunization or vaccine has the potential to cause some side effects, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, for most, the benefits of the tetanus vaccine outweigh the possibility of mild side effects. If you observe serious side effects, such as constant crying, a fever of more than 105 degrees or any jerking movements by your infant, take your infant to the doctor. These symptoms are uncommon, but parents or caregivers should be aware of them.
