Epidemiological characteristics of tetanus in Trinidad (1973 - 1975)

ABSTRACT

In the 3 years 1973-1975, 88 persons were known to have had tetanus in Trinidad. The distribution of patients by age was unusual only for those 20-49 years old, in which males predominated. Of the 88 patients, 65 reported a recent injury; 46 of these were on the foot or leg. The case-fatality ratio was 30 percent; fatal cases had notably shorter incubation periods(most, less tha n9 days). Immunization status was not known for 66 percent (58/88). Of those with known immunization status, 9 of the 19 who had never been vaccinated against tetanus died; only 1 of the other 11 died. There was no consistent seasonal pattern of occurrence of cases. The incidence of tetanus decreased from 7.5 cases/100,000 population in 1968 to less than 3/100,000 in 1973-1975. Vaccination for the groups at higher risk of developing tetanus is now being stressed throughout Trinidad. (AU)