Symptoms:
The symptoms of tetanus in children typically appear within 2 to 14 days after infection. The most common symptoms of tetanus in children include muscle stiffness, spasms, and difficulty swallowing. Other symptoms may include fever, sweating, and high blood pressure. Children with tetanus may also experience muscle stiffness in the jaw, which gives the condition its name "lockjaw." In severe cases, tetanus can cause seizures and breathing problems.
Causes:
Tetanus is caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil, dust, and manure. The bacteria can enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a cut, burn, or puncture wound. Once inside the body, the bacteria produce a toxin that affects the nervous system, causing muscle stiffness and spasms. Tetanus is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.