Your child's doctor plays an important role in preventing tetanus by making sure your child's immunizations are up to date and providing post-exposure prophylaxis if your child has a wound that's at risk for tetanus.

A child who does develop tetanus will be treated in a hospital, usually in the intensive care unit. There, the child typically receives antibiotics to kill bacteria and TIG to neutralize the toxin that the bacteria have already released. The child will also receive medicines to control muscle spasms and may be given medicines to support vital body functions.

Home Treatment
Any skin wound - especially a deep puncture or a wound that may be contaminated with feces, soil, or saliva - should be cleaned and dressed right away. Although it's important to clean all wounds, remember that cleaning is not a substitute for immunization.