Question
A relative’s baby was born 15 days ago and showed symptoms of spasms and clamping teeth on the 6th day. The doctor diagnosed it as neonatal tetanus. How should neonatal tetanus be handled?
Answer
Neonatal tetanus is an acute severe infection caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria entering the umbilical cord, usually occurring around 7 days after birth. Immediate hospitalization and treatment should be initiated upon diagnosis, with controlling spasms being crucial. If complications arise, appropriate use of broad-spectrum antibiotics should be made, and the duration of penicillin use should be extended.