Tetanus, 2013

One case of tetanus was reported during 2013. The case occurred in a fully vaccinated 62-year-old white female. She presented to an ED with cellulitis about 3 weeks after sustaining an abrasion-type wound on the hand while moving a bike in her garage. The wound was debrided and the patient received antibiotic therapy. She was then admitted to a hospital facility for pain, neck stiffness and muscle spasms. She received tetanus immune globulin (TIG) and Tdap 10-14 days after symptom onset. She was hospitalized a total of 23 days at two different facilities and spent time in an ICU, though no mechanical ventilation was required.

• For up to date information see>> Tetanus
• Full issue>> Annual Summary of Communicable Diseases Reported to the Minnesota Department of Health, 2013