Tetanus is caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria lostridium tetani, found in soil or in animal feces. This toxin causes intense muscle contractures which can reach the respiratory muscles and lead to death.
Neonatal tetanus occurs in children whose mothers are not immune, for example when instruments used to cut the umbilical cord are improperly sterilized. Death is rapid and painful, between 3 and 28 days after birth. Tetanus also strikes many mothers during childbirth, especially due to poor hygiene during care. Deaths from tetanus are usually due to asphyxiation by paralysis of the respiratory muscles.
Tetanus is a fatal disease in 50% of cases. We tend to forget it in our industrialized countries where vaccination is compulsory.
In France, the vaccination is based on an injection at 2 and 4 months, then a booster at 11 months. Reminders are then recommended throughout life.
Many countries in Africa and Asia do not have access to these massive vaccination campaigns.
