What happens when C. tetani spores enter the body?
The spores multiply, forming into many, many bacteria. As the bacteria grow, they release a toxin that affects the body’s nervous system. What are the symptoms of Tetanus? Perhaps the most well-known symptom of Tetanus is its alias: Lockjaw. The toxin released by the bacteria causes muscles spasms and stiffness. Often, the first signs of Tetanus are a headache and a stiff jaw. This stiffness can be so sever that it is impossible to move the jaw muscles. Other symptoms of Tetanus are: *Irritability *Neck stiffness *Trouble swallowing *Rigid abdominal muscles *Muscle spasms in the neck, arms, legs, and abdomen *Convulsions, sometimes severe enough to break bones After exposure to C. tetani, how long does it take for symptoms to appear? The average incubation period (from exposure to the onset of symptoms) for Tetanus is eight days. However, symptoms can appear anywhere from three days to three weeks (or more) post-exposure. Is Tetanus fatal? It can be. On average, three out of every ten
