Tetanus cases in Ninh Binh highlight risks of minor wounds

Medical professionals in Ninh Binh are warning the public that even minor skin injuries can lead to severe tetanus infections. Two recent cases highlight this danger: a 71-year-old woman developed generalized tetanus after being pricked by a bougainvillea thorn, and a 65-year-old man required intensive treatment following a minor scratch sustained while cutting bamboo.

In both instances, patients experienced symptoms such as jaw stiffness, muscle spasms, and difficulty swallowing. The 71-year-old patient required a tracheotomy and mechanical ventilation due to pneumonia, while the 65-year-old man underwent prolonged treatment for muscle rigidity and infection. Doctors emphasize that the size of a wound does not reflect the level of danger, as tetanus bacteria can enter through small scratches or punctures contaminated by soil or dust.