Tetanus is a severe, occasionally fatal disease, caused by the toxin of the bacteria, Clostridium tetani. Tetanus typically infects the body through a dirty or deep wound. It is also called "lockjaw," as it causes spasms of muscles of the neck and jaw. Tetanus is quite rare today because most people are vaccinated against it.
The bacteria that cause tetanus are found in the soil, usually where there is animal manure. Tetanus is most often seen in people who work in an agricultural setting and are exposed to fresh manure and soil. The tetanus bacteria enter the body through a wound that is contaminated with soil or manure. Puncture wounds place one at high risk. People with severe burns can also get the infection.
The first symptom is usually a stiffening of the muscles in the neck and face causing difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Problems swallowing, rigid or hard abdominal muscles, twitching, fever and sweating can also occur.
Symptoms usually begin about eight days after an injury. The more contaminated the wound, the sooner the symptoms may begin. In unvaccinated people, coma, blood clots, pneumonia, and death can occur.
If you receive a dirty or deep wound, make sure that it is cleaned extremely well to clean out any soil or contaminants. If you have not had a tetanus vaccination in the last ten years, a vaccination can be given on the day of injury. In cases of deep wounds, heavily contaminated with soil, the patient may also be given a tetanus antitoxin shot. An antibiotic may also be given. If the wound is not deep or grossly contaminated, a tetanus booster should be given within 3 days if the injured person has not had a booster in 5 years.
Article #4730
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