Penza reminded of the importance of vaccination against tetanus

An ordinary walk outside the city or work in the country can turn into a serious danger. Doctor Olga Alexandrova from the Atlas clinics reminded that the causative agent of tetanus lives in the soil. To become infected, it is enough to get a small abrasion into which the earth will fall.

The specialist stressed that the main threat is not the wound itself, but the bacteria that got inside. Even a microscopic cut requires close attention, especially if there is no vaccination. In the area of particular risk - puncture wounds and injuries, where oxygen access is difficult.

The incubation period can last from a couple of days to two months. Then the disease manifests itself with severe convulsions. If treatment is not started in time, the outcome can be fatal.

With any injury, it is important to wash and treat the damage immediately. If there is a suspicion of infection, it is necessary to urgently contact doctors. Unvaccinated patients undergo emergency prophylaxis for 20 days.

Vaccination given less than 10 years ago reduces the risk. However, the fact of the disease does not give lifelong immunity. The most reliable method of protection is regular revaccination every ten years.