Tetanus
What is tetanus?
One of the most feared complications of any cuts, bites or other wounds, however small, is the tetanus infection. It can develop days or even weeks after the injury.
How do you get?
Tetanus bacteria usually found in soil, but can be almost anywhere. If the spores enter a cut beyond the scope of oxygen, germinate and produce a toxin that interferes with the nerves that control muscles. A tetanus infection is serious, and can end in death if one has not been immunized previously.
SYMPTOMS
Stiffness of the jaw muscles and other muscles, and could even lead to seizures and inability to breathe.
TREATMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Tetanus infection is preventable by following a series of preventive steps. Consult your doctor immediately if any cut or wound. If you already tetanus vaccination for many years, your doctor will probably give a booster dose of vaccine, then quickly your body will produce antibodies to protect against tetanus. If you have not received tetanus shots in advance, your doctor may give tetanus immunoglobulin that will give immediate protection, but only for a few weeks.
It is also very important to clean the wound carefully, removing all traces of dead tissue and leave it open without strips or dots so that air can reach all parts of the wound (remember that the air kill the tetanus bacteria). Several antibiotics can also help eliminate the tetanus bacteria, but it is no use if not properly treated the wound and if you have not used a dose of immunoglobulin.
Active immunization is vital for everyone before there is any injury. The tetanus vaccine is generally given to children within the call DTP (Which also includes vaccination against diphtheria and pertussis). Will be needed later tetanus booster every 10 years or upon occurrence of further injury.