Tetanus (Lock Jow)


Tetanus is a deadly infection caused by a bacterium that lives in dirty soil or animal feces.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Stiffness of the jaw, stiffness of the neck, convulsions, painful muscular spasms, failure to suck in a baby, fever, photophobia.

TRANSMISSION

Through puncture wounds from sharp objects.  

Through infected sharp materials.

CAUSATIVE AGENT

Clostridium tetani.

INCUBATION PERIOD

Usually 3 days to 3 weeks.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL  

1. Immunization with T.D. and pentavalent vaccine.  

2. Treatment of an infected person.  

3. Environmental sanitation.  

4. Surveillance

5. Health education.



Summary

Tetanus is a preventable yet potentially fatal disease caused by Clostridium tetani. It is characterized by muscle rigidity and spasms following the entry of bacterial spores into a wound. The disease is not transmitted person-to-person but is acquired from environmental sources. With an incubation period generally between 3 and 21 days, early recognition and prompt treatment—including the administration of tetanus immune globulin, proper wound care, antibiotic therapy, and supportive measures—are crucial for improving outcomes. Vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention.

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