•Is caused by a germ that enters the body through a cut or wound.

•Causes serious, painful spasms of all muscles.

•Can cause "locking" of the jaw so that you would not be able to open your mouth or swallow.

•In the United States, kills 3 out of every 10 people who get the disease.

•Is contagious and can spread when germs pass from an infected person to the nose or throat of others.

•Causes a thick coating in the nose, throat or airway.

•Can lead to breathing problems, heart failure, paralysis, or death.

•Is rare in the USA because of the successful immunization program.

•Is indicated for active immunization of adults against Diphtheria and Tetanus and should be given at ten (10) year intervals throughout life to maintain immunity.

•In the event of an injury for which Tetanus prophylaxis is indicated, the vaccine may be given if more than five years have elapsed since the last booster dose.

•This immunization does not prevent other bacterial infections, therefore wound observation and care is of extreme importance.

•Mild problems--soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given. If these problems occur, they usually start within hours to a day or two after vaccination, and may last 2 days. You may use Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (non-aspirin) to reduce soreness.

•Severe problems--as with any medication, there are very small risks that serious problems, even death, could occur after getting a vaccine.

•Immediate -- serious allergic reaction.

•Delayed -- 2 days to 4 weeks after the shot and may last many months: deep aching pain and muscle wasting in upper arm.