Tetanus - a.k.a Lock jaw.

Tetanus is a condition caused by the release of toxins, by the microorganism called Clostridium tetani.

This microbe is so well distributed in the environment and especially in the soil, that once we get deep traumatic wounds, we're advised to go get a shot of the vaccine called  "tetanus toxoid".

Know why? I'm about to tell you!

Clostridium tetani, the causative organism of tetanus, is:
1) anaerobic - meaning it does very well in places without a lot of oxygen like your deep traumatic wounds.

2) spore-forming - meaning it is remarkably resilient. It can convert to a dormant energy-saving form during harsh conditions and revert to the energy-spending form when conditions are favourable, like when it gets into that wound.

I know right? Evillll!!!

This condition is so significant that pregnant women have to get vaccinated to protect their babies when they are born before they can get their routine vaccines - thankfully free in Nigeria.

There are classic symptoms that characterise this condition.

These symptoms stem from severe spasms caused by the toxin released; spasms so severe, "bones break"!

They include:
Opisthotonus (the back curves forward), lockjaw aka trismus, the person can't swallow, the abdominal wall becomes very rigid, sometimes the severity can even cause some persons to stop breathing... Andddd the rest you know!

The toxoid is prepared from a component of the toxin that causes tetanus. When injected into your body (for cases of deep wounds), it helps you immediately neutralise any circulating toxin produced by the microbe, while giving your body time to produce it's own naturally, in order to carry on the process.

Stay safe!!! Get vaccinated, Get booster vaccine doses!!!