Vietnam doctors warn of tetanus risks from minor wounds

Medical professionals in Vietnam are warning the public about the dangers of tetanus, noting that the severity of the disease does not necessarily correlate with the size of the wound.

At Bach Mai Hospital's Ninh Binh facility, two severe cases were recently treated. One 65-year-old patient contracted tetanus from a minor scratch while cutting bamboo, leading to symptoms such as jaw stiffness, difficulty swallowing, and muscle spasms. Another 71-year-old patient developed generalized tetanus after being pricked by a small thorn from a bougainvillea plant. Both patients required intensive treatment, including anti-tetanus serum (SAT), antibiotics, and in one case, mechanical ventilation due to pneumonia.

Doctors emphasize that even small punctures, scratches, or skin injuries contaminated with soil or dust can serve as entry points for the bacteria. Early recognition of symptoms like jaw stiffness is critical for survival.