ETIOLOGY, CLINICAL FEATURES AND PREVENTION OF CLOSTRIDIUM TETANI
Abstract
This article examines the main causes (etiology), clinical signs, and prevention measures of tetanus caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. C. tetani is a gram-positive, spore-forming, obligate anaerobic microorganism. It is mainly found in soil, dust, and animal intestines. Bacterial spores are resistant to the external environment; upon entering the body through a wound, they become active and produce a toxin.The neurotoxin secreted by the bacteria influences the development of tetanus. This toxin affects the nervous system, causing intense muscle contractions and spasms. Clinically, the disease manifests as triism, muscle rigidity, and general spasms. In preventive measures, primary attention is paid to active immunization. Anatoxin-based tetanus vaccines are utilized as highly effective prophylactic agents in the prevention of the disease. Furthermore, timely and proper treatment of wound surfaces and strict adherence to sanitary and hygienic standards are important factors in disease prevention.The article briefly outlines the general microbiological characteristics of tetanus, the course of the disease, and preventive measures based on scientific sources.