Tetanus Cases Increase in Florida in 2025

Global vaccination programs have significantly reduced newborn deaths in the last 30 years. However, tetanus remains a public health problem in many countries.

In the U.S., approximately 10% of people diagnosed with tetanus die. 

According to recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 37 tetanus cases have been reported nationwide, the most in over a decade.

This CDC data is an increase from 33 in 2024 and 18 in 2023.

The leading states reporting cases include Florida, where the 8 cases occurred across five counties: Charlotte (2), Martin (1), Palm Beach (2), Seminole (2), and Walton (1).

"A booster of some form of tetanus shot should be updated every 10 years or sooner, especially if there is injury by stab, animal bite, or dirty wounds," Duellyn Pandis, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, CTM®, AFTM RCPS(Glasg), FAANP, informed Vax-Before-Travel on December 28, 2025.

Pandis, the CEO of PassportHealth-Tampa, added that local news recently reported that Florida may eliminate tetanus vaccination requirements for children.

Despite this global progress, recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) underscore the ongoing importance of tetanus vaccination in the United States. 

The CDC says most reported tetanus cases occur in individuals who are unvaccinated, under-vaccinated, or have waning immunity, particularly among older adults and those with chronic conditions.

While tetanus is rare in the United States due to historically high vaccination coverage, these recent increases serve as a reminder that no one is fully protected without staying current on boosters, according to the CDC website. Vaccination not only prevents individual cases but also safeguards vulnerable populations.

In the U.S., three types of combination vaccines include protection against tetanus: DTaP, Tdap, and Td. These vaccines are offered at clinics and pharmacies.