Tetanus

Tetanus is a disease arisen from infection with  Clostridium Tetanii, a virulent bacteria that is found in soil, faeces and dead tissue.

In many third world countries , poor post-partum practices of cutting the umbilical cord with a dirty blade , or applying cow dung to the umbilical stump results in contamination of the infant, a particularly vulnerable group.

24-48 hours following infection muscle spasms cause a predominance of flexor muscle group contraction that can lead to convulsions, respiratory and cardiac failure.

Treatment is difficult requiring muscle relaxants, and often respiratory support and intensive care admission. These are obviously scare commodities in most settings and death is the inevitable outcome. 

infant with terminal tetanus

Proper antenatal care , cord hygeine, and tetanus vaccination of mother and child is crucial.

With a 0% coverage of the full tetanus immunisation in the Delta communities, education of the traditional birthing attendants and provision of clean razor blades, and cord tape remains the priority whilst efforts are made with national stakeholders to widen immunisation programs.

Tetanus can equally affect adults and dirty wounds and poorly treated , contaminated injuries, even small ones can prove fatal. Use of native herbal medicines and packing of wounds with soil contaminated herbs can prove to be  the agent of transmission.