Tetanus: A rare but preventable cause of mortality among drug users and the elderly

Forty deaths due to tetanus were reported in Lazio, Italy, during 1985-1994. Retired persons accounted for 48% of all deaths. Intravenous drug use was the most commonly identified risk factor among individuals aged less than 40 years. The frequent utilization of curative health services by drug users and the elderly should be used as an opportunity to update their immunization status.