Tetanus is an infection caused by a germ (bacterium) called Clostridium tetani which can attack the muscles and nervous system. It is a serious infection which can even be fatal. Tetanus germs (bacteria) are commonly found in soil, house dust, and animal and human faeces. The tetanus bacteria may get into your body through a cut or a wound in the skin. The bacteria release a poison (toxin) which causes the illness.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/childrens-health/immunisation/tetanus-immunisation