In India
What Is Tetanus?
Tetanus is an acute infectious disease caused by the toxin(poison) of a bacteria, Clostridium tetani, which grows at the site of injury. There is a state of almost persistent painful spasms of some of the voluntary muscles.
What Are The Symptoms Of Tetanus?
- The first sign is stiffness of the jaw, muscles of the food pipe (esophagus), and some muscles of the neck.
- Soon the jaws become rigidly fixed (Trismus or Lock jaw)
- The voice is changed
- Muscles of the face contract, producing a wild excited expression, a compound of bitter laughter and crying (Risus sardonicus).
- The muscles of the back and extremities contract
- Patient may bent back in a bow (Opisthotonos), or to the side (Pleurothotonos),or forward (Emprosthotonos).
- Spasmodic contraction of muscles are excited by noises, breeze of air, or irritation of clothes.
- The temperature may become very high.
- Patient also suffers from severe pain, hunger, thirst, and want of sleep.
P.S. - Death may occur due to insufficient supply of oxygen and exhaustion.
About Tetanus Neonatorum
It is the tetanus of the new born babies which occurs as a result of infection of the naval caused due to lack of proper sterilization while cutting the umbilical cord.
About Puerperal Tetanus In Women
It is the tetanus that occurs in women following child birth.
Immunization In Pregnancy
Aim - Protecting mother and child from tetanus.
Dosage -
- Two intramuscular injections of 0.5 ml tetanus toxoid is given at the interval of 6 weeks.
- First shot is given preferably between 16 to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
- Women who are immunized in the past are given a booster dose in the last trimester i.e. last 3 months of pregnancy.
Please Note:
- Regular visits to the gynaecologist and pre-natal checkups during pregnancy are must for the well being of mother and the child.
- Content of this post is informative in nature and cannot replace a face to face consultation and advice of your gynaecologist.
Also read:
See list of all articles on Pregnancy
