Pune: Tetanus is fatal sans vaccination or proper treatment. An 11-year-old boy of Sonpeth in Parbhani district defied all odds as he fought frequent spasms and breathing difficulty after contracting the condition from a wound. Despite having missed routine immunisation, he lived through the medical trauma and is out of danger thanks to advanced treatment at the Sassoon General Hospital.On admission to Sassoon, he was on mechanical ventilation for almost 57 days because of respiratory distress. Pneumonia, nutritional deficiencies from prolonged illness and constant spasms complicated the case, demanding daily adjustment of medications.Nurses and doctors were on their toes to monitor him closely and prevent further infection. Treating doctors highlighted that tetanus shots must be taken even in case of minor wounds.PICU in-charge Dr Uday Rajput said tetanus could happen in case of big injuries and even the smallest of wounds. The first step is to always wash the wound thoroughly with soap and clean water, remove dust or soil and to not use tight bandages. Home remedies are best avoided. “That done, a doctor should be consulted immediately. If it is a child, a booster or immunoglobulin may be required depending on their immunisation status as per IAP guidelines. Whether vaccinated or not, proper wound care and timely treatment remain the surest way to prevent tetanus,” he added.The boy was admitted to the hospital on June 6 and discharged on Aug 23 after complete recovery. He was on a ventilator for almost two months, after which he was in paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) for six days and the paediatric ward for a fortnight for supportive care.Head of the paediatrics department Dr Aarti Kinikar, who led the treatment, said, “Neonatal tetanus occurs because mothers often miss their vaccines during pregnancy or when deliveries happen in unhygienic conditions. Parents must ensure children get regular tetanus shots under routine immunisation till 11 years.”Dr Rahul Dawre (associate professor and unit in-charge) and Dr Suvidha Sardar (assistant professor) put their weight behind Kinikar and Rajput for a successful outcome.Sassoon dean Dr Eknath Pawar said, “Tetanus is preventable. Timely vaccination saves lives. This case is a reminder that immunisation is not optional, it is lifesaving.”Medical superintendent Dr Yallapa Jadhav said, “Treatment for tetanus and other serious illnesses is covered under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana and Ayushman Bharat Yojana, but families must produce a valid ration card. In this case, the boy’s family was not burdened financially.”
