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Cases of tetanus in the United States rose from 17 in 2020 to 38 in 2025, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), prompting public health experts to suggest that Americans might check their vaccine status and consider boosters when appropriate. CDC reported that from 2009–2023 there were 402 reported tetanus cases nationwide—an average of about 27 cases per year with 37 total deaths. However, other signs indicate an upward trend could be emerging for this almost entirely preventable disease. The 38 tetanus cases recorded in 2025 represent the highest annual total in nearly 20 years. At the same time, more families are opting out of tetanus vaccines for their kids. For children entering kindergarten (2024–2025 school year), the diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis vaccination coverage decreased to 92.1%, compared with 94.7% in 2015. Even though it’s rare, tetanus can be fatal: Approximately 1 in 10 people who develop tetanus will die, with the highest mortality and case-fatality rates among adults aged 65 years and older.
Preventive measures: Tetanus is a clinical syndrome diagnosed based on clinical presentation consistent with tetanus without a more likely cause. No diagnostic tests exist to support or rule out the diagnosis. Since the late 1940s—when the vaccine became available—reported tetanus cases have declined more than 95%, according to CDC. Read more about addressing tetanus prophylaxis for puncture wounds from the JUCM archive: Pediatric Plantar Puncture Wound Through Rubber-Soled Footwear: A Case Report Highlighting Antibiotic Stewardship in Urgent Care