Tetanus

Tetanus results from contamination of a wound with bacteria that produce a toxin which affects the nerves. The bacteria are found in soil containing animal manure, so that any wound which may be exposed to dirt is a potential entry point for tetanus. The wound may be very minor (such as a puncture wound of the foot) or even forgotten; in newborn babies, infection usually occurs through the umbilical cord.
Tetanus develops after a period of less than 2 weeks. It begins as difficulty opening the mouth (lock-jaw) or sucking in babies. Stiffness of the jaw and neck is followed by irritability and then severe spasms of the muscles of the abdomen and back. Very severe cases may require artificial ventilation until the illness has been effectively treated (with antitoxin and antibiotics).
As many as 90% of newborns with tetanus die, although the death rate is lower in the general population (around 65%). Death usually results from breathing problems. Patients who survive the first week are likely to recover.

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