Question
If a newborn shows symptoms such as restlessness, persistent crying, and clenched jaws, diagnosed by the hospital as tetanus, how should neonatal tetanus surgery be carried out?
Answer
The treatment for neonatal tetanus primarily focuses on vaccination, specifically the administration of tetanus toxoid. It is typically recommended to receive the DTP (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus) vaccine, with an immunization schedule consisting of three doses administered sequentially at the 3rd, 4th, and 5th months after birth to establish a basic immunity. A booster shot is also given at 2 years and 7 years old. If exposed to an injury that could trigger tetanus later on, a booster dose of tetanus toxoid should be administered immediately, with the antitoxin level in the serum rising rapidly within a few days.