What is it?
Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that causes painful muscle spasms or twitching. It usually starts about 7 to 10 days after bacteria enter the body.
You can ask your own question to a licensed healthcare provider here for free. It may take up to 7 days to get an answer. If you want a consultation in minutes, book now with Hope+ our premium and best health consultation service in Uganda.
How do people get tetanus?
The bacteria that cause tetanus live in the environment, especially in soil and dust. They enter the body through deep cuts, wounds, or injuries, including the umbilical cord in newborn babies, ear infections, or wounds from childbirth or abortions.
Signs and symptoms:
- Stiff jaw and difficulty opening the mouth (sometimes called “lockjaw”)
- Muscle spasms triggered by loud noises or bright lights, causing a grimace (called “risus sardonicus”)
- Arching of the back with the patient staying awake and aware
- Fever
- Trouble breathing due to throat muscle spasms
- You might have tetanus even if there is no visible wound
What should you do if you suspect tetanus?
- Go to a hospital immediately. Tetanus is very dangerous and needs urgent care.
- You will be cared for in a quiet, calm place where your breathing, temperature, and spasms can be carefully watched.
- A tube might be placed through your nose or mouth to help with feeding and medicine.
- Oxygen may be given if breathing is difficult.
- In severe cases, you may be cared for in intensive care where breathing machines are used.
How is tetanus treated?
- The harmful toxin from the bacteria is neutralised by special medicines called tetanus immunoglobulin.
- You will be given a full course of the tetanus vaccine to protect you in the future.
- The wound will be cleaned carefully to remove any dead tissue.
- Antibiotics will be given to kill the bacteria (usually metronidazole or benzylpenicillin).
- Medicines will be given to control muscle spasms, like diazepam, magnesium sulphate, or others.
- Pain relief is provided to keep you comfortable.
How can tetanus be prevented?
- All children should be vaccinated against tetanus during routine immunisation.
- Proper wound care is very important—clean wounds well and seek medical advice.
- If you have a deep or dirty wound and you are not fully vaccinated, you may need a tetanus booster or tetanus immunoglobulin as a precaution.
- Adults who had a tetanus vaccine more than 10 years ago may need a booster after injuries.
If you have any wound or injury, especially if it is deep or dirty, always seek medical advice to prevent tetanus. Vaccination is the best protection.
