Tetanus: A silent killer

On January 1, 2024, a 61-year-old man, whose identity has not been disclosed, was rushed to the general hospital in Lagos in a critical condition.

This emergency hospitalisation came just two weeks after he had received initial treatment for injuries sustained in an accident.

Although the initial treatment appeared to be effective, with no immediate complications, his health took a drastic turn for the worse over time, necessitating urgent medical attention.

In a desperate bid to save his life, the man’s family sought help from multiple hospitals. Shockingly, five different medical facilities turned him away, citing various reasons including lack of resources and bed space.

It was only upon arriving at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) that he was diagnosed with tetanus.

The family was taken by surprise when the diagnosis was delivered, as they were not previously informed about the seriousness and consequences of the infection.

Despite the critical nature of his condition, LASUTH and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) could not admit him due to a shortage of bed space.

This scarcity is a grim reality in many Nigerian healthcare institutions, where resources are often stretched thin. Consequently, the man was admitted to a private hospital but the transfer was fraught with anxiety, as his health continued to deteriorate rapidly.

His health took a turn for the worse significantly within a span of two days after he was admitted to the private medical facility. The severity of the tetanus infection necessitated placing him on oxygen.

For nine agonizing days, he remained in this state, with no significant improvement in sight. The medical team, recognizing the limitations of their facility, decided to transfer him to another private hospital in Lagos.

No Improvement was recorded after 24 hours in the new hospital

Despite being transferred to a different hospital, his medical state did not show any signs of improvement within a day of admission.

The family, now desperate and emotionally drained, had to make yet another critical decision regarding his care.

He was rushed to UCH Ibadan by ambulance and oxygen

Recognizing the need for more advanced medical intervention, the decision was made to transport him to the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan. The journey was arduous, requiring constant oxygen support to keep him stable. The ambulance ride was a race against time, with the family praying for a miracle.

He spent 28 days in ICU University College Hospital (UCH) before he was transferred to the ward after spending millions of naira on bed space, drugs, tests, x-rays, and operations

Upon arrival at UCH, he was immediately admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). For 28 days, he received intensive care, including numerous tests, X-rays, and operations. The financial burden was immense, with the family spending millions of naira on medical expenses. Despite the considerable expenses incurred, there was a steadfast dedication to employing all necessary means to preserve his life.

After weeks of intensive treatment, he finally showed signs of recovery. He was able to get back on his feet and was subsequently discharged. However, the damage inflicted by the tetanus infection was profound.

The viral infection had left an enduring imprint on his well-being, ensuring a permanent alteration in his health status.

He occasionally suffered breathing problems and seizures

Post-recovery, he faced ongoing health challenges. Breathing problems and seizures became a recurring part of his life. These occurrences served as a poignant reminder of the gravity of his ailment and the enduring repercussions of tetanus on his physical state.

In an endeavour to regulate his health status, he rigorously adhered to a precise regimen of bi-weekly medical evaluations. Even with all the efforts made by his healthcare providers and the treatments administered, his condition showed a continuous decline.

In June, he experienced a severe health crisis. While being rushed to a private hospital in Lagos, he tragically passed away, marking the end of a harrowing battle with tetanus.

Effects of tetanus

Tetanus is a severe and potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani. The bacterial agents generate a noxious substance that impacts the nervous system, resulting in muscle rigidity and convulsions.

The initial symptoms typically begin with jaw and neck stiffness, progressing to more severe muscle contractions throughout the body.

These spasms can be so intense that they cause bone fractures and severe breathing difficulties. Tetanus is especially dangerous because its spores are ubiquitous, and found in soil, dust, and animal feces, making any untreated wound a potential entry point for the bacteria.

The peril associated with tetanus does not solely stem from its acute symptoms, but also from the swift advancement of the ailment. Upon infiltration into the body, the bacteria release toxins that can swiftly overwhelm the nervous system, precipitating life-threatening complexities such as respiratory insufficiency and cardiac failure.

The process of treatment typically requires extensive medical care, including the use of antitoxins, antimicrobial drugs, and prolonged hospital stays, which can place a considerable strain on both the financial and emotional well-being of patients and their relatives.

The disease is preventable through vaccination, yet many regions with inadequate healthcare infrastructure struggle to maintain sufficient immunization coverage.

As a silent killer, tetanus highlights the critical importance of preventive healthcare measures, timely medical intervention, and the need for greater public health education to reduce its devastating impact.

Conclusion

The story of the 61-year-old man from Lagos underscores the silent but deadly nature of tetanus. This underscores the adversities prevalent within the healthcare framework, encompassing resource scarcity and the imperative for enhanced medical accessibility.

Tetanus remains a significant health threat, especially in regions with inadequate vaccination coverage and poor wound care practices.

Mitigating tetanus entails a comprehensive strategy, incorporating meticulous wound care, punctual immunization, and public health enlightenment. It is imperative for individuals to promptly seek medical intervention for injuries and ensure that their tetanus immunizations are current.

As exemplified by this scenario, the repercussions of neglecting these protocols can be catastrophic. Tetanus undeniably emerges as a clandestine adversary, yet with appropriate precautions and medical interventions, its impact can be markedly mitigated.