Definition of «tetanus»

Tetanus is a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system. It is caused by the Clostridium tetani, which produces a toxin that can lead to muscle spasms and stiffness, particularly of the jaw and neck. The disease can be fatal if not treated properly, but vaccination is available to prevent it.

Usage examples

  1. Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil and dust.
  2. The primary mode of tetanus transmission is through the contamination of open wounds with the bacterium.
  3. Tetanus is characterized by muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw muscles, giving rise to the condition's colloquial name, "lockjaw."
  4. The tetanus vaccine is highly effective at preventing the infection and is routinely included in childhood immunization schedules.
  5. In developing countries with limited access to healthcare, tetanus is a significant cause of mortality, particularly among newborns.
  6. Tetanus antitoxin is used as a treatment for individuals with suspected tetanus infection to neutralize the toxins produced by the bacterium.
  7. Tetanus-prone wounds, such as deep puncture wounds or contaminated burns, should be thoroughly cleaned and managed to prevent tetanus infection.
  8. Tetanus is a preventable disease, and maintaining proper wound care, regular vaccination, and tetanus booster shots are vital preventive measures.
  9. Despite effective prevention measures, tetanus can still occur in individuals who are unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or have not received a recent tetanus booster shot.
  10. Tetanus is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment with antibiotics, wound care, and tetanus vaccination is essential for successful management.

Sentences with «tetanus»

  • If you're over 50, you made it this far on polio, mumps, measles, chickenpox, whooping cough vaccines and a couple of tetanus shots along the way. (thedogplace.org)
  • San Juan, PR: Jim Mitchum and Sue Mangicaro received a request for tetanus vaccines from Dr. Sanet Torres - Torres at San Jorge Children's Hospital. (hearttoheart.org)
  • Many of these vaccines combine a common «carrier» protein called tetanus toxoid with an innocuous carbohydrate capsule derived from a pathogen. (sciencemag.org)
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