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Tetanus (Lockjaw)

Treatment

Tetanus is an emergency and should be treated in the hospital as soon as possible. Treatment could include:​

  • Aggressive wound care

  • Antibiotics

  • Drugs to control muscle spasms

  • Medicine called human tetanus immune globulin (TIG)

  • Tetanus vaccination

Complications

​

  • Broken bones

  • Blood clots in the lungs

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Hospital-acquired infection

  • Pneumonia

  • Uncontrolled tightening of the vocal cords

  • Death

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Vaccine schedule for children 0-6

5 vaccines at 2, 4 and 6 months. 15-18 months and 4-6 years.

Transmission

Tetanus is caused by a bacteria called Clostridium tetani. 

Tetanus enters the body through breaks in the skin, usually from an injury with something containing the bacteria such as a rusty nail, or a dental tool that hasn't been properly sanitized, although rare. 

Signs + Symptoms

Tetanus is also commonly referred to as lockjaw as this is the most common symptom. Other symptoms include:​

  • Increased heart rate

  • Headache

  • Seizures

  • Fever

  • Muscle stiffness

  • Muscle spasms

  • Difficulty swallowing

Source: Centres for Disease Control and Prevention

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