Tetanus, caused by the bacterium clostridium tetani is an infection, which basically causes lock-jaw, muscular spasms and numerous muscular and nervous problems due to the contractions. The main cause of the tetanus is the accumulation of bacteria inside the wound. The bacterium is present mostly in soils and in rusted surfaces.

Prevention of this infection is possible only through immunisation with the help of vaccines, as of today. Scientists and researchers are finding new and effective methods of immunisation against the infection. The tetanus toxoid or (TT) as it is commonly called has been found quite effective and safe from the time of its inception in 1920. The main component of this vaccine is the tetanus toxin itself but in a deactivated state and in very small amount. It is also treated chemically and heated before it is used. The TT is generally administered to children, who are most sensitive to the virus, as part of the DTP (Diphtheria and tetanus toxoid and pertussis) vaccine.

The vaccine is administered five times every 2 months for the first six months after birth to infants. It is then followed by a shot at eighteen months and the last one is given when the infant grows into a child of six years.

It is important to have complete immunity against the bacteria. Improper immunisation may also result in the infection. People travelling to different places need to be constantly administered with booster vaccines to keep themselves immune from most of the infections, including tetanus.

Although vaccines provide adequate immunisations you might need to follow certain other guidelines in order to be completely secure from the infection.

- Maintain a good personal hygiene

- In case of a deep cut or a wound, clean the wound immediately with a good cleaning and anti-toxic agent. Cover the wound and if there are any dust or soil particles, consult the doctor immediately.

- If the wound has been caused by a rusty nail or a rusted surface, and if you haven't been administered a tetanus vaccine for more than three years, get a vaccine within 24 hours of injury

- In case of a fatal accident, tetanus vaccine is a must.

- Use good and efficient antibiotics on the wound and change the dressing of the wound every day.

- In case of rashes near the wound stop the medication and consult a skin doctor immediately.

- Also make sure that you don't touch any rusted surface for a long time, even if you don't have an open cut. Open wounds are not the only way the bacteria can enter your system.

- Farmers who toil in the soil and people who work in an industrial atmosphere must be administered with the TT vaccine regularly.

- Pregnant women who have not been immunised earlier need to be given a vaccine shot in the initial months of their pregnancy in order to avoid neonatal tetanus to the newborn.

The above mentioned precautionary measures are just some basics to be followed in your day to day life. Prevention is always better than cure!