Tetanus: What You Need to Know
The cause of tetanus are anaerobic bacteria named Clostridium tetani. They enter the body via a wound and multiply there. As they multiply they produce a toxin known as "tetanospasmin" which binds to the inhibitory neurons and prevents them from releasing their neurotransmitters. The toxin can only be active in the body if it is introduced via a wound because it is digested in the intestine.
Affected humans or animals will have tense, contracted muscles. Other signs will depend on the location of the wound. If the toxin reaches the diaphragm then the human or animal will stop breathing and die.
The bacteria itself are gram negative and are a little tennis-racket shaped. They are rarely identified in clinical cases because the signs of paralysis are so characteristic, and in many cases the wound containing the bacteria isn't identified.
The bacteria can be killed by penicillin, but the antibiotic may not be able to reach the bacteria inside necrotic tissue. Prevention and vaccination are more effective means of control. Antibodies may be administered to deactivate any free toxin in the body. If a human or animal acquires a wound likely to be contaminated with C. tetani, then they are usually given the vaccination at the same time, but in a different location, to the antibodies. This is because if the deactivated toxin and antibodies were given at the same spot, then the antibodies would bind to the vaccine. Typical wounds that would be regarded as potentially causing tetanus include bites and puncture wounds.
The vaccine for tetanus contains deactivated tetanus toxin. This produces good immunity to the paralyzing effects of these bacteria, but not to the bacteria itself. It's a good, effective, relatively cheap vaccine that puts no pressure on the bacteria to evolve. It is recommended that adults receive a booster shot of this vaccine every ten years. Horses are more sensitive and it is recommended that horses are vaccinated for tetanus every year or second year.
The vaccine itself is very safe to use and cannot cause tetanus because the toxin is inactivated.
References:
Wikipedia, Clostridium tetani - Wikipedia the free encyclopedia, Wikipedia
Nearly-Dr Ferox, Tetanus - Clostridium tetani, Blogging4life
Published by Ferox
I am an Australian Veterinary Student that also enjoys RPGs and similar games in my spare time. View profile
- Owner's Guide to Farm Animal Vaccinations and Diseases: SheepDiscover diseases in sheep that are commonly vaccinated against.
- All You Wanted to Know About Immunization Schedule for Your Child!!!Immunization forms one of the most important and cost effective strategies for the prevention of childhood sicknesses and disabilities and is thus a basic need for all children.
- Baby's Immunization Schedule: What You Need to KnowA guide to the shots your baby will receive during their first year, and what the immunizations are for.
- What You Need to Know About Thimerosal in VaccinesThimerosal in vaccines was used as a preservative for the vaccines, but as a "precautionary measure" was supposedly removed, however some studies reveal that there is still a level of mercury in vaccines.
Tampa Bay Florida Neighborhood Invaded by a 200 Lb Hogzilla: Wild Pig At...Wildlife is moving into Tampa Bay neighborhoods posing a danger for residents.
- The Dangers of the Tetanus Vaccine
- Are You Overdue for a Tetanus Vaccine Booster?
- Tetanus- "Lockjaw" is a Fitting Name for This Frightening Disease
- Tetanus Symptoms, Information and Treatments
- Tetanus and Why Immunization is so Important
- Understanding Tetanus: The Cause, Symptoms and Treatment for Tetanus
- The History of Tetanus