Tetanus booster needed

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 262, 8 November 1988, Page 7

Tetanus booster needed

Many people may be at risk from tetanus if their booster injections are not up to date particularly those in their 20s and older.

Tetanus germs (called spores) can enter the body through any wound no matter how small. Minor injuries thought unimportant have been responsible for tetanus deaths. Small wounds which heal quickly are most likely to be infected. Tetanus spores live in soil and animal manure and are everywhere in dirt and dust. Farmers, children, gardeners and sports people make up the high risk group. There are several cases of tetanus in New Zealand each year - some fatal. The poison from the tetanus spores is very powerful and it causes painful spasms (tetany) of the muscles, in particular those around the neck and jaw. The first symptom is usually stiffness around the jaw. This is why tetanus is sometimes called Tockjaw'.

Immunisation causes the body to develop special defences against the disease without actually having the disease. In the case of tetanus a series of immunisations are needed to provide complete protection (see immunisation schedule). Without all these doses (boosters) the body 'forgets' and the defence system does not work next time the body meets the infection. The immunisation is provided free. Current Immunisation Programme At birth: Hep B 6 weeks: Diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus Hep B 3 months: Diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, Hep B, polio 5 months: Diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio

12-15 months: Measles, Hep B 18 months: Diphtheria, tetanus, polio 5 years: Polio

Form 1 girls only: Rubella 15 years: Tetanus, Tetanus booster every 20 years.