Which bacterium causes tetanus, the muscle-stiffening disease linked to contaminated wounds?

Clostridium tetani causes tetanus, the muscle-stiffening disease linked to contaminated wounds.

This bacterium is an anaerobic, spore-forming member of the genus Clostridium. Its spores are widespread in soil, dust, and animal feces and can enter the body through puncture wounds, burns, or other damaged tissue. In oxygen-poor conditions, the bacterium can produce tetanospasmin, the neurotoxin responsible for the disease.

Tetanospasmin interferes with inhibitory nerve signals, causing painful muscle rigidity and spasms. Jaw stiffness, commonly called lockjaw, is a classic early sign, but the toxin can affect muscles throughout the body. Tetanus does not usually spread from person to person.

A common mix-up is Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism and produces a different neurotoxin. Vaccination with tetanus toxoid and appropriate wound care are the main preventive measures. Booster doses are recommended because immunity can decline over time.