Is tetanus curable

I went to visit a neighbour’s son in the hospital a few days ago and saw him in a very bad shape with severe muscle spasms and difficulty with breathing. I was informed that a rusty nail pierced his foot and caused the infection. I want to know if the disease is curable and how it can also be prevented.

Emeka (by SMS)

The bacteria that causes tetanus, Clostridium tetani, is a common soil-living bacteria. It’s in the ground everywhere. Even though rust does not cause tetanus, but a rusty nail indicates it’s likely been in contact with the soil for a period of time, and thus likely has C. tetani on it. C. tetani is an anaerobic bacteria, meaning Oxygen is poisonous to it.

If you get a scratch, tetanus is possible but unlikely, because of the Oxygen in the atmosphere. But a puncture, like from a nail, creates an oxygen-free atmosphere deep in the wound, perfect for C. Tetani. This is why puncture wounds are taken so seriously.

Tetanus is not curable. Once you’ve developed symptoms, the disease needs to run its course. But proper treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Tetanus is commonly known as lockjaw. Severe complications of tetanus can be life-threatening. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and complications until the effects of the tetanus toxin resolve. It is advisable to avoid Tetanus by getting vaccinated with the Tetanus vaccine.

READ ALSO: VIDEO: ‘My dad can’t afford my school fee,’ eight-year-old boy joins protest in Lagos