What is neonatal tetanus?

Neonatal tetanus is a severe infection caused by Clostridium tetani, primarily affecting newborns. This disease is highly dangerous. 1. Etiology and route of transmission: Neonatal tetanus is mainly caused by Clostridium tetani entering the body through wounds in the umbilical cord or skin. These bacteria are commonly found in soil, dust, or animal feces. The toxins produced by Clostridium tetani can affect the nervous system, leading to severe muscle spasms and convulsions in newborns. 2. Clinical manifestations: Symptoms of neonatal tetanus include persistent muscle stiffness, convulsions, difficulty breathing, and difficulty feeding. Newborns may exhibit abnormal neurological symptoms, such as inability to move or cry normally. These symptoms typically appear within days after birth. 3. Prevention and treatment: The key to preventing neonatal tetanus lies in maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the umbilical cord wound and employing sterile techniques during childbirth. For confirmed cases, treatment involves administering antitetanus toxin and antibiotics. Timely treatment is crucial for improving survival rates. If a newborn displays symptoms of tetanus or there is concern about potential infection risk, prompt medical attention should be sought.