local
Tetanus cases are rising. How to prevent getting this potentially fatal disease
By CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7
· June 23, 2026
· 1 min read
By Faye Chiu, CNN
(CNN) — Tetanus may sound like a disease from another era, but experts are warning that it remains a serious threat.
Two recent reports from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found hundreds of tetanus cases and dozens of deaths over 15 years, along with four ...
Key takeaway Two recent reports from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found hundreds of tetanus cases and dozens of deaths over 15 years, along with four ...
Why this matters in The El Paso
In El Paso , where outdoor activities like hiking and biking are popular, the risk of tetanus infection is a concern for residents who enjoy the city's many parks and trails. The presence of bacterial spores in soil and dust means that even minor cuts or puncture wounds can pose a risk if not properly cleaned and treated. Given the decline in vaccination rates, local health officials may need to reassess their outreach and education efforts to ensure that El Pasoans are aware of the dangers of tetanus and the importance of seeking medical attention promptly if they suspect they have been exposed. The fact that tetanus can affect anyone, regardless of age or health status, underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent infection, particularly in a community where outdoor recreation is a big part of everyday life.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? By Faye Chiu, CNN
(CNN) — Tetanus may sound like a disease from another era, but experts are warning that it remains a serious threat.
Two recent reports from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found hundreds of tetanus cases and dozens of deaths over 15 years, along with four ...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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