Definition:
Neonatal tetanus is a serious tetanus infection of newborn infants. It is also alternatively known as tetatnus neonatorum. In general, tetanus can affect people of all ages; but in babies, this disease is particularly serious and may be fatal.
Diagnosis:
There are no specific lab tests to determine tetanus, and diagnosis is mostly based on clinical manifestations and physical symptoms, along with the mother's medical history.
Treatment:
Prevention of neonatal tetanus is crucial. Females of child-bearing age must be immunized with tetanus-toxoid (TT) -containing vaccines to protect both mother and fetus from this potentially fatal disease. In addition, hygienic practices during delivery are particularly important. When neonatal tetanus does occur, treatment usually involves intravenous Iv sedative drugs along with an oral regime that includes: naso-gastric tube after sedation; tetanus antiserum; procaine penicillin; and kanamycin.
Symptoms and Signs:
Symptoms of neonatal tetanus include: irritability; restlessness; muscle spasms; muscle rigidity; dysphagia; facial grimacing; poor suck; and failure to thrive. Tetanus in babies is usually fatal, with symptoms typically appearing 4-14 days from birth.
Causes:
Tetanus is a disease caused by spores of Clostridium Tetani, a type of bacterium universally found in soil. These spores can infect a wound or the umbilical stump, leading to neonatal infection. Most neonatal tetanus cases occur when the baby has not acquired passive immunity because the mother has not been immunized against the infection.
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