Tetanus is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. This bacterium cannot be passed from person-to-person, but instead can be found in soil that is contaminated with animal and human feces and urine. This bacterium enters the body through cuts in the skin and produces toxins that can get into the bloodstream and may cause painful and violent muscle spasms.
Reporting
For information on how to report a disease click here. For any questions, please contact the appropriate health authority by phone or review the website for additional information.
Carson City, Douglas and Lyon Counties
Carson City Health & Human Services (CCHHS)
(775) 887-2190
Website
Clark County
Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD)
(702) 759-1300
Website
Washoe County
Washoe County Health District (WCHD)
(775) 328-2447
Website
All Other Counties
Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH)
(775) 400-0333
Website