Tetanus is a life-threatening disease & there is no cure for it.

According to current guidelines, adults should receive a booster dose of tetanus vaccine every 10 years to maintain protection against tetanus

In 2023, there were 21,830 reported cases of tetanus globally. It is also a major health concern in India. Adult tetanus is a neurotoxin-mediated infectious disease that continues to be seen despite the availability of a highly efficacious vaccine. Tetanus vaccines are widely available and relatively inexpensive. The World Health Organization recommends that everyone receive six doses of the tetanus-containing vaccine from childhood to adolescence. Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system, leading to painful muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck. It is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil, dust, and manure. The bacteria enter the body through open wounds, cuts, or burns, where they produce toxins that affect the nervous system.

How does tetanus spread?

Tetanus is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person. The bacteria that cause tetanus are found in the environment and enter the body through breaks in the skin. Common ways of contracting tetanus include stepping on a rusty nail, getting a puncture wound, or having a burn that becomes contaminated with soil or feces.

Tetanus symptoms

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·??????? Difficulty walking

·??????? Limb pain or stiffness

·??????? Back muscle pain or stiffness

·??????? Dysphagia

·??????? Autonomic dysfunction

Treatment:

Adult tetanus is often overlooked, even though it remains a major public health problem. There's no cure for tetanus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications until the effects of the tetanus toxin resolve. A combination of antitoxin, anti-convulsive medications, antibiotics, and hospitalization is employed to manage Tetanus.

Why is it important for adults to receive a booster dose of the Tetanus vaccine every 10 years?

The immunity provided by the tetanus vaccine decreases over time, so adults need to receive a booster dose every 10 years to maintain adequate protection. Tetanus is a life-threatening disease that can cause severe muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing, and even death. By getting vaccinated regularly, adults can protect themselves and prevent the spread of tetanus to others.

How has India achieved Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination (MNTE)?

India has made significant progress in eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus, which is a major achievement in public health. Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus Elimination (MNTE) means that the country has eliminated the disease for both mothers and newborns. This milestone was achieved through a combination of vaccination campaigns, improved sanitation, and better healthcare practices.

In conclusion,

Tetanus is a serious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. Adults should make sure to receive a booster dose every 10 years to maintain protection. With continued efforts in vaccination and public health measures, countries like India have been able to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus, showing that progress can be made in the fight against this deadly disease.

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