Child suffering from tetanus is improving, says health unit

The Grey Bruce Health Unit reports that a child who was diagnosed with tetanus is improving and has been moved from intensive care to a pediatric medical bed.

The unimmunized child from the Grey-Bruce is the first recorded case of tetanus in Grey and Bruce counties, stated the health unit in a press release. Friday, the child was listed in critical condition.

 

Tetanus (lockjaw) is rare in Ontario, on average one case per year, states a press release from the health unit. "Tetanus is a serious disease caused when tetanus spores get into a cut or puncture wound. Tetanus spores are found everywhere, in soil, dust, and manure. The disease is not spread from person to person. Tetanus causes cramping of the muscles in the neck, arms, legs and stomach. It may also cause painful convulsions. Even with early treatment, tetanus has a fatality rate of about 20 per cent; highest rates are found in infants and the elderly."

 

The tetanus vaccine is routinely administered in combination with vaccines against diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and Haemophilus Influenza Type B, to children at two months, four months, six months, and 18 months of age, says the health unit.. Completion of the primary series provides more than 99-per-cent protection. Booster doses of tetanus vaccines are given at four to six years of age and 14 to 16 years of age. A booster dose is recommended for adults every 10 years for continued protection.

 

For further information, call public health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, or visit the website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.