Tetanus
Tetanus, commonly called lockjaw, is a bacterial disease that affects the nervous system. It is contracted through a cut or wound that becomes contaminated with tetanus bacteria. The bacteria can get in through even a tiny pinprick or scratch, but deep puncture wounds or cuts like those made by nails or knives are especially susceptible to infection with tetanus. Tetanus bacteria are present worldwide and are commonly found in soil, dust and manure. Infection with tetanus causes severe muscle spasms, leading to ‘locking’ of the jaw so the patient cannot open his/her mouth or swallow, and may even lead to death by suffocation. Tetanus is not transmitted from person to person.
Manifestations: The incubation period varies from 3 to 21 days. Symptoms normally begin 8 days after the infection and include:
- Muscle stiffness involving the jaws (lockjaw)
- Sweating
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle stiffness involving the neck
- Rigidity of abdominal muscles
- Spasms
- Difficulty in swallowing
Diagnosis and treatment: There are no laboratory findings characteristic of tetanus. Treatment with immune globulin is available. Vaccine is effective.
Prevent tetanus by:
- Vaccination is the best way to protect against tetanus. Due to widespread immunization, tetanus is now a rare disease in the U.S. A combination shot, called the Td vaccine, protects against both tetanus and diphtheria. A Td booster shot is recommended every 10 years. Adults who have never received immunization against tetanus should start with a 3-dose primary series given over 7—12 months
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