Post-Neonatal Tetanus in Nguru, Yobe State, North-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Eighteen cases of post-neonatal tetanus managed between January 2005 and December 2008 at the Federal Medical Centre, Nguru were retrospectively reviewed. The male female ratio was 3.5: 1, and mean ±SD age of 5.83 ±3.38years with range between 2 and 12 years. The immunization status was uncertain in 83.3% of the cases. Suppurative otitis media (SOM) and circumcision by the traditional ‘surgeon’ were important portals of entry of the
infection, accounting for 50% of cases. A mortality of 5.9% was recorded. It is therefore recommended that patronage of traditional surgeons should be discouraged and parents should be encouraged to seek for medical care from Orthodox Health Care facilities. The role of Government in these matters is also vital. Furthermore, there is need to improve on routine immunization activities at the Local Government Area levels.

Keywords: Post-neonatal tetanus, Immunization status, SOM, Circumcision.