What is lockjaw ?

Lockjaw is the other name for tetanus. It is a bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani .Tetanus can be fatal but  the tetanus vaccine can prevent the disease.A booster shot is needed every 10 years after primary immunization or after a puncture or deep skin wound.

Neonatal tetanus is theytype that occurs in babies when they are born in unsanitary conditions.

What causes tetanus ?

The spores of Clostridium tetani  can be found in the soil, feces and dust. When they enter the body through a wound ,  they produce powerful neurotoxins known as tetanospasmin that cause muscle spasm. The toxin travels through the bloodstream and lymph system , taking over the whole body. As a result  normal function of the nerves are impaired and this causes general muscle spasm and stiffness.

How do I know I have tetanus ?

Are you experiencing the following symptoms ?

 
• fever
• difficulty swallowing
• drooling
• Spasms and stiffness in your jaw muscles
• elevated blood pressure
• uncontrolled urination and defecation
• sweating

 
These could be the symptoms of tetanus. The signs may appear a few days to several weeks after infection with the bacteria.

Am I at risk ?

These factors may increase your risk of tetanus.

Do you have a deep or penetrating wound ?

Have you skipped getting the tetanus vaccine ?

Do you have other infectious bacteria ?

If the answers to these questions are yes, you may be at risk of tetanus.

I have tetanus. Can I be treated ?

There is no treatment for tetanus. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. These include :

 
• antibiotics
• antioxidants
• muscle relaxers
• powerful sedatives
• surgery
• tetanus vaccine

How can I protect myself from tetanus ?

One sure way to prevent tetanus is by getting the DTap vaccine which protect against diphtheria, tetanus and whooping-cough.  The vaccine is given at these recommended ages

 
•  2 months
• 4 months
• 6 months
• Between 15 and 18 months (can be given as early as 12 months as long as it’s at least six months after the previous shot)
• Between 4 and 6 years old

 
A booster shot be given every ten years, after a deep wound or when travelling to areas prone to tetanus.

 
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