Question
A relative’s child in a remote rural area showed convulsive symptoms and locked jaws 15 days after birth. The doctor diagnosed it as neonatal tetanus. Could you please explain how to handle this condition?
Answer
Neonatal tetanus, also known as “navel wind,” usually occurs when the umbilical cord of a newborn is cut and contaminated by Clostridium tetani due to improper sterilization of birthing tools or inadequate disinfection of umbilical cord care. Symptoms typically appear between 4 to 7 days after birth. The invasion of Clostridium tetani into the umbilical cord produces toxins, leading to an acute infectious disease characterized by locked jaws and generalized muscle spasms. Treatment involves administering tetanus antitoxin, controlling convulsive symptoms, managing infection, ensuring adequate nutrition, and providing symptomatic treatment.