Question
What are the symptoms of neonatal tetanus?
Answer
Neonatal tetanus is caused by an infection of the umbilical cord after birth. It usually occurs between 3 to 14 days after birth. The main symptoms include crying, difficulty in opening the mouth, and difficulty in breastfeeding. Later on, teeth may clench tightly, facial muscles may become tense, and there may be clonic gripping. In severe cases, spasms of the respiratory muscles can lead to asphyxiation. Currently, if a child born in a local hospital is diagnosed with it, it is unlikely to have tetanus.
Prevention Methods
To prevent neonatal tetanus, it is recommended that pregnant women receive the tetanus vaccine during pregnancy. Additionally, during childbirth, it is important to ensure that doctors and midwives take proper hygiene measures to reduce the risk of infection. For the care of the baby’s umbilical cord, it should be kept dry and clean, and any chemical substances should be avoided. If the baby shows any abnormal symptoms, seek medical attention immediately and inform the doctor if the mother has received a tetanus vaccine.