The teenager, whose family rejects vaccinations, developed the disease following injuries sustained in a fall. Tetanus is caused by a toxin from the Clostridium tetani bacteria, which is commonly found in soil and dust. While not contagious between humans, it is a life-threatening condition that is easily preventable through standard immunization schedules.
The Department of Health is closely monitoring areas with low vaccination rates. This case coincides with a sharp rise in measles cases in Catalonia, which increased by 135% between 2024 and 2025. Consequently, the WHO has revoked Spain's status as a measles-free country.
“"This is where we see most cases among adolescents. It happens in vulnerable areas but also in neighborhoods with high socioeconomic levels."
