Cdc tetanus update

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In neonatal tetanus, symptoms usually appear from 4 to 14 days after birth, averaging about 7 days. Nervous system abnormalities, as well as a variety of complications related to severe spasm and prolonged hospitalization, can accompany generalized tetanus. The clinical course of generalized tetanus is variable and depends on the. Localized tetanus is an unusual form of the disease consisting of muscle spasms in a confined area close to the site of the injury.

Although localized tetanus often occurs in people with partial immunity and is usually mild, progression to generalized tetanus can occur. The rarest form, cephalic tetanus, is associated with lesions of the head or face and may also be associated with otitis media.

The incubation period is short, usually 1 to 2 days. Unlike generalized and localized tetanus, cephalic tetanus results in flaccid cranial nerve palsies rather than spasm. Spasm of the jaw muscles may also be present.

Like localized tetanus, cephalic tetanus can progress to the generalized form. Clinicians should maintain a patent airway.

Depending on the severity of disease, endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy and mechanically assisted respiration may be lifesaving. Clinicians should use sedation and muscle relaxant drugs as indicated to control muscle spasms. Agents to control autonomic nervous system instability may be required.

Initiate active immunization concurrently with treatment. Medical experts recommend a single dose of human TIG for treatment of persons with tetanus. Researchers have not established the optimal therapeutic dose. Minus Related Pages.

Tetanus Vaccination. Tetanus Vaccine Basics This page offers comprehensive information about tetanus vaccines and other educational tools. Vaccine Safety Tetanus vaccines can cause minor reactions, including pain and redness at the injection site, headache, fatigue, or discomfort.