How long does it take to show signs of tetanus after being exposed?
The incubation period varies from 3-21 days, with an average of eight days. The further the injury site is from the central nervous system, the longer the incubation period. The shorter the incubation period, the higher the risk of death. What are the symptoms of tetanus? The symptoms of tetanus are caused by the tetanus toxin acting on the central nervous system. In the most common form of tetanus, the first sign is spasm of the jaw muscles, followed by stiffness of the neck, difficulty in swallowing, and stiffness of the abdominal muscles. Other signs include fever, sweating, elevated blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. Spasms often occur, which may last for several minutes and continue for 3-4 weeks. Complete recovery, if it occurs, may take months. How serious is tetanus? Tetanus has a high fatality rate. In recent years, tetanus has been fatal in about 11% of reported cases and as high as 18% in persons age 60 years and older, and 22% in unvaccinated persons. What are possible c
