Tetanus is caused
by the common bacterium Clostridium tetani that is widespread in our environment, and any wound presents a risk of infection.
| The bacteria can enter the body through a tiny pinprick or scratch--even from splinters, although deep puncture wounds or cuts made by nails or knives are especially susceptible to tetanus infection. |
Clinical manifestations of tetanus are due to a toxin secreted by the organism. Because a person might not always seek treatment by a physician for a minor wound that could cause tetanus, the best way to prevent infection is for people to get routine Td booster immunizations every 10 years.
Unlike every other vaccine-preventable disease, tetanus is not transmitted from person-to-person. The most common form of tetanus causes paralysis, usually starting at the top of the body and working its way down. Lockjaw is often the first symptom, followed by stiffness in the neck and difficulty swallowing; muscle spasms may occur frequently, last for several minutes, and persist for up to a month. Symptoms of tetanus can appear anywhere from three days to three weeks after exposure to the bacteria, and may be accompanied by fever, sweating, elevated blood pressure, and rapid heartbeat.
| Although tetanus cases in the United States have decreased over the years, it can be a very deadly disease. Even with proper treatment, it is fatal for 1 out of every 10 people infected in this country, so it is important that people get a booster vaccine every 10 years to stay protected. |
A recent case demonstrates how a simple injury can lead to a serious problem, and the severity of tetanus infection. In 2002, a man in Puerto Rico infected from splinter wound in his right hand. He sought medical care three times in 11 days, twice via the emergency room - with symptoms ranging from weakness to difficulty walking, talking and swallowing. On the third medical visit, he was diagnosed with tetanus, admitted to the intensive care unit and put on a ventilator to assist breathing. The man had not received regular booster doses, nor did he appear to have prior vaccination against tetanus. He ultimately survived, after nearly eight weeks recovering in the hospital.
Click here for
links to tetanus photographs and other information:
www.cdc.gov/nip/diseases/disease-chart-hcp.htm |
