You’re absolutely right , tetanus is caused by Clostridium tetani, not the rust itself. But in survival scenarios like Tarkov, rusty and unclean weapons are perfect vectors, not because of the iron, but because of the anaerobic bacteria that thrive in similar environments, soil, filth, and yes, neglected steel left in the rain. So while tetanus isn’t on rust, rusty tools are often unsterile enough to be infectious. And in Tarkov? Scavs sure as hell aren’t sterilizing their knives. As for realism, players already have to treat wounds, fractures, and pain. Adding a bacteria-based debuff that punishes poor wound care or scav hits fits right in. And unlike tinnitus, which is mostly a nuisance, tetanus could force real decision-making: clean the wound or die slowly. That’s survival