Which factor best explains why tetanus incidence is low in the United States?

Which factor best explains why tetanus incidence is low in the United States?

• A. It is highly contagious
• B. Vaccinations prevent tetanus
• C. It has no effective treatment
• D. It occurs only in undeveloped areas

Answer: (B)

Vaccination against tetanus is what keeps the incidence low. The tetanus toxoid vaccine prompts the body to produce antibodies that neutralize the toxin produced by Clostridium tetani. Since tetanus is triggered by exposure to this toxin in wounds and is not spread from person to person, having protective antibody levels prevents disease even if exposure occurs. In the United States, high vaccination coverage with regular boosters ensures most people remain immune, drastically reducing cases. There is treatment available if tetanus occurs, but it addresses the toxin after disease has developed, not prevention, so vaccination is the decisive factor for low incidence.

Vaccination against tetanus is what keeps the incidence low. The tetanus toxoid vaccine prompts the body to produce antibodies that neutralize the toxin produced by Clostridium tetani. Since tetanus is triggered by exposure to this toxin in wounds and is not spread from person to person, having protective antibody levels prevents disease even if exposure occurs. In the United States, high vaccination coverage with regular boosters ensures most people remain immune, drastically reducing cases. There is treatment available if tetanus occurs, but it addresses the toxin after disease has developed, not prevention, so vaccination is the decisive factor for low incidence.