A 22-month-old toddler is in a stable condition in hospital with the first confirmed case of tetanus in a South Australian child in 17 years.

The state's chief medical officer Professor Paddy Phillips has urged parents to get their children fully vaccinated against tetanus and other diseases.

"Sadly, we have been notified of the first tetanus case in South Australia since 2013 and the first case in a child since 2000," he said.

Professor Phillips confirmed the child was a boy but would not give any further details about the case.

SA Health said the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccination is given to children at six weeks, four months and six months, with booster doses at 18 months, four years, and in Year 8.

"Childhood vaccinations are particularly vital as children are more susceptible to illness and early immunisation can prevent deaths in childhood as well as disease and disability later in life," Professor Phillips said.

"Some people have concerns about vaccination, but they should be reassured that the risk from getting a disease far outweighs the risk from immunising against it."

Tetanus is caused by bacteria found in soil, and human and animal faeces entering the body through cuts and open wounds.

Symptoms include painful muscle spasms, initially of the muscles of the neck and jaw and later in torso muscles.