About tetanus
March 18, 2009
Hey people do you know that even simple injury can lead to devastating effects like the occurrence of tetanus disease. It is indeed very much important to get beware of this deadly disease before it’s too late for you!
Tetanus commonly called as ‘lockjaw’ is a bacterial disease that affects the nervous system. It is contracted through a cut or wound that becomes contaminated with tetanus bacteria (clostridium tetani). The bacteria can get in through even tiny pinprick or a scratch, but deep puncture wounds or cuts like those made by knives or nails are especially susceptible to infection with tetanus.
Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in soil, dust and manure. Infection with tetanus causes severe muscle spasm, leading to locking of jaw- so the patient cannot open his mouth or swallow. Muscle stiffness all over the body may follow. An infected person may also have other symptoms like difficulty in swallowing, restlessness and irritability, stiff neck arms or legs, fever, headache and soar throat. As the disease progresses, the victim may develop fixed smile and raised eyebrows due to facial muscle spasm. Spasm of the diaphragm and the muscles between the ribs may interfere with breathing, often requiring mechanical ventilation. The abdominal and back muscle may become rigid. Disease, when more severe, can lead to death by suffocation.
Some important facts about tetanus are that tetanus can be prevented with a safe and effective vaccine. Secondly, you cannot get tetanus from a vaccine. Thirdly, Tetanus is not transmitted from one person to another. Fourthly, approximately 11 percent of tetanus cases are fatal. Last but not the least, Recovery from tetanus illness may not result in immunity. So after recovery, immunization should be provided.
Tetanus prophylaxis is an essential part of al wound management but specific measures depend on the nature of the injury and the immunization status of the individual.
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