Tetanus
by Grace Koster
- An infectious disease
- Derived from the Ancient Greek words 'tetanos' meaning 'taut' and 'teinein' meaning 'to stretch'.
- There are four different forms of tetanus:
- Generalised
-
Local
-
Neonatal
-
Cephalic
Causes
The bacteria Clostridium tetani produces an neurotoxin called tetanospasmin and can get into the body through broken skin, usually through injuries from contaminated objects.
- Objects contaminated with dirt, feces , or saliva
- An object puncturing the skin, like a nail or needle
- Burns
- Crush injuries
- Injuries with dead tissue
Symptoms
- Headache
- Jaw cramping
- Involuntary muscle tightening
- Painful muscle stiffness throughout body
- Trouble swallowing
- Staring or jerking (seizures)
- Fever and sweating
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
symptoms
Symptoms
Treatment
- Hospitalisation
- Antitoxin ( tetanus immunoglobulin)
- Anti-convulsive medications
- Antibiotics
- Life support (such as an artificial respirator)
Surgery
Prevention
- Protective gear such as gloves
- Vaccination
tetanus vaccination
(or DTaP vaccine)
This vaccination provides protection against three diseases:
- Diptheria
- Whooping Cough
- Tetanus
The DTaP vaccine is given at ages:
• 2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months
• 15 to 18 months
• 4 to 6 years
And every 10 years thereafter
In America(1947-2007)
In Australia (1993-2007)
In Australia (2005-2007)