HOME HEALTH GUIDE

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 July 1943, Page 6

HOME HEALTH GUIDE

TETANUS FROM DIRT. PRECAUTIONS TO OBSERVE. (By the Health Department.) Good old Mother Earth isn't always so good. Secreted in her ample bosom is one of mankind's most vicious enemies —the tetanus germ which lurks in the soil of home gardens, in playgrounds, and in the highways—in fact, everywhere. The tetanus germ is the cause of what is commonly known as lockjaw, which really is only one symptom of' a terrible disease. Victims usually die an agonising death when medical aid fails, and medical aid must fail if proper treatment is not obtained in good time. The tetanus germs are very widespread, and any injury which forces particles of soil under the skin or into the flesh might easily be a receptacle for some of them. This is true of injuries received when digging the garden, from falls in the playground, or any wound that is contaminated by dirt. In this category come motor-car mishaps and industrial accidents. Injuries from gunshot, explosives or fireworks are very dangerous, because die force of the explosion may easily carry the infection deep into the flesh tissues. A deep wound with a small opening needs special watching, because a puncture wound of this nature shuts out the oxygen, and encourages any tetanus germs that might have entered. All abrasions and wounds, whether received at home or at work, should be immediately washed with soap and water, and painted with detol, iodine, or Friars Balsam. This is good preventive practice and a sound personal rule. If you’re at all suspicious about a wound, just remember the risk of tetanus, and see a doctor without delay. He can give you a serum that will prevent trouble if given in time.