Tetanus - Annual Epidemiological Report for 2018

In 2018, 92 cases of tetanus were reported in the EU/EEA, of which 48 were confirmed cases. The number of reported cases was similar to the number of cases reported in 2017. Adults aged 65 years and above were the most affected age group, with women accounting for the majority of cases. Cases occurred more frequently in the warmer months, which are associated with higher levels of outdoor activity. The current epidemiology of tetanus in the EU/EEA may be explained by lower vaccination coverage or waning immunity in older populations. Due to the severity of tetanus, there is a need to maintain high vaccination rates in all age groups and continue implementing/developing strategies to protect specific groups, particularly the elderly, in countries with higher rates of disease.