Tetanus

Tetanus

This is a disease caused by a bacteria called Clostridium Tetani. It enters the body through a cut wound. Once in the body, it produces a toxin that causes vigorous muscle contractions or Jacky movements. For this reason, it is also referred to as Lockjaw disease. It causes the muscles of the neck and jaw to lock making it difficult to swallow or open their mouths.

Mode of transmission

Tetanus bacteria are commonly found in the soil and in manure. They multiply once they enter a human's body. Tetanus can not be spread from one person to another, unlike other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Common ways the bacteria can get into the body

1. Contaminated wounds (rust, dirt, feces, saliva)

2. Puncture wound (nail, needle)

3. Crush injury 

4. Wound with dead tissue

Signs and symptoms

- Difficulty swallowing

- Jaw cramping and inability to open mouth

- Muscle spasms in the back, abdomen, hands, and legs.

- Headache

- Fever and sweating

- Seizures

Treatment

• Hospital care
• Thorough cleaning of the wound
• Antibiotic therapy
• Pain killers
• Drugs to control muscle spasms

Tetanus vaccination is available in all health facilities in the country. The vaccine as dictated by WHO is a five-dose schedule that provides long-life protection. 

ANTE NATAL MOTHERS	TT DOSE	CONTACT
First pregnancy	1	At first contact and before 8 months.
	2	Four weeks after the first dose.
Second pregnancy	3	At first contact and before 8 months.
Third pregnancy	4	At first contact and before 8 months.
Forth pregnancy	5	At first contact and before 8 months.
Children
6 weeks	1	Child welfare clinic
10 weeks	2	Child welfare clinic
14 weeks	3	Child welfare clinic
Booster at 10 years
Trauma and injury	TT DOSE	CONTACT
First contact (no later than 7 days)	1	Outpatient
One month	2	Outpatient
Six months	3	Outpatient
One year	4	Outpatient
One year	5	Outpatient

 Conclusion

Tetanus is an illness caused by bacteria that enters the body through a wound. Signs and symptoms may start to appear between 3-14 days. They include muscle spasms, and lockjaw and may include seizures. It is treated by antibiotics and proper wound care in a hospital and other medications. It is also preventable through active vaccination.