Tetanus Vaccine

Tetanus Vaccine

Tetanus vaccination is an essential immunization that protects against Clostridium tetani, a dangerous bacterium that produces a toxin causing painful muscle stiffness and spasms, often known as “lockjaw.”

In rare cases, it can lead to complications such as nerve inflammation or immune-related reactions. One of the most recognized vaccine-related conditions is Brachial Neuritis, which has been linked in rare instances to tetanus-containing vaccines such as Td or DTaP.

In these cases, the immune system may mistakenly target the nerves of the shoulder and arm (the brachial plexus) shortly after vaccination, causing inflammation and disrupting normal nerve signals. This immune reaction can lead to sudden, intense pain and weakness in one arm.

Symptoms can appear within hours or days after vaccination and may include:

  • Sharp, burning, or stabbing pain in the shoulder or upper arm

  • Tingling or numbness spreading down the arm or into the hand

  • Weakness or partial paralysis in one arm

  • Limited range of motion or loss of muscle control

  • Pain that worsens at night or when lying flat

Most people gradually recover over several months with physical therapy and medication, though some experience long-term weakness or residual pain due to nerve damage.

If you or your child developed sudden shoulder or arm pain, weakness, or numbness after a tetanus vaccination, you may qualify for compensation. These cases have strict filing deadlines, so contact our firm right away to begin your claim and protect your right to recovery.

  • The tetanus vaccine contains an inactivated toxin called a toxoid, which is made from the tetanus-causing bacterium Clostridium tetani.

    Because it’s inactivated, it cannot cause tetanus infection, but it trains the immune system to recognize and fight the toxin if exposed in the future.

    The vaccine also contains stabilizers, preservatives, and adjuvants to ensure safety and effectiveness.

    • The toxoid helps the body create protective antibodies.

    • Aluminum salts are used as adjuvants to boost the immune response.

    • Some formulations combine protection against diphtheria and pertussis (DTaP, Tdap, Td).

  • The tetanus vaccine prevents a life-threatening infection that affects the nervous system and causes severe muscle spasms and rigidity.

    • Protects against tetanus, commonly caused by bacteria entering wounds.

    • Often given in combination with diphtheria and pertussis vaccines for broader protection.

    • Booster shots are recommended every 10 years for continued immunity.

  • Rare adverse reactions can occur — several of which are recognized by the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP):

    • Anaphylaxis: A rare but serious allergic reaction that can cause hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

    • SIRVA (Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration): Occurs when the injection is given too high or deep, injuring the shoulder joint or bursae.

    • Brachial Neuritis: A painful nerve inflammation in the shoulder and arm, sometimes triggered by an abnormal immune response to the vaccine.

    • Vasovagal Syncope: A fainting reaction caused by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure during or after the injection.

  • If you may have suffered a vaccine-related injury, the most important step is to seek medical care right away.

    Early treatment can help reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and create clear medical documentation that supports your recovery and any future claim.

    Once you’ve received care, hire a Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) lawyer to handle your case.

    VICP claims follow a unique federal process, and having a lawyer who understands this system ensures your claim is filed correctly and on time.

    Best of all, attorney fees are paid by the program, not by you. Getting the right help early protects both your health and your legal rights, without costing you anything, whether you win or lose your claim.

    • Virtually all tetanus cases today occur in unvaccinated individuals.

    • The CDC reports over 95% effectiveness after the full vaccination series.

    • Serious side effects occur in less than one per million doses administered.

    • The vaccine is one of the oldest and most reliable immunizations, widely used since the 1940s.

A healthcare professional wearing gloves administering a vaccine injection into a person's upper arm.