Pattern And Outcome Of Childhood Tetanus In Aba

Abstract

All cases of neonatal tetanus admitted in the Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH), Aba during a three-year period (Oct 2000 to Sept 2003) were retrospectively studied. Of the 1602 children admitted, 52 (3.35%) were tetanus cases. There were 30 neonatal and 11 older children. The mortality rate was 31.7%. Neonates accounted for 92.3% of the deaths. Forty four percent of mothers were unimmunised and 33% of deliveries were conducted outside a health facility. Broomstick injuries were significant causes of childhood tetanus in Aba. Associate conditions constituted important contributors to tetanus case fatalities. The prevalence and mortality of tetanus remains high in our environment. This also underscores the need to re-evaluate and recognise tetanus immunization strategies in Aba area to and extends NPI programme to reach non-health facility deliveries and booster doses to children.

KEY WORDS: Tetanus, Pattern, Outcome.

Journal of Medical Investigation and Practice Vol. 4: 2003: 19-22