Tetanus

Tetanus is caused by the bacteria, clostridium retain and is found everywhere. Transmission occurs through open wounds, usually puncture wounds by contaminated objects. Wounds mostly likely to be contaminated include dirt, human or animal waste or saliva, puncture wounds, burns, crush injuries, and those of dead tissue. It is common world wide especially in rural and agricultural regions where soil and animal waste are as well as areas that are not adequately vaccinated. It can happen in any age group.

Symptoms usually appear within 10 days, but can range from 3-21 days. Symptoms include muscle rigidity and spasm, often in the jaw and neck. Spasms can be limited to the injury site, head, face, head, or cranial nerve palsies. They can rapidly progress to more generalized rigidity and spasms. In severe cases respiratory failure and death occur. The death rate is high even with the most modern intensive medical care.

Tetanus requires hospitalization and treatment with human tetanus immune globulin (antibodies), tetanus toxid, antibiotics, and wound care.

Everyone should get a tetanus booster every 10 years, or 5 years if they experience a puncture wound or highly contaminated wound. Make sure your tetanus is update before you travel and even if you are staying at home. It's preventable, and if infected with the bacteria the death rate is very high.