Are tetanus immunizations being given to the survivors with injuries?
Q: A lot has been said about the need to prevent diarrhoeal diseases and to immunize survivors. I would like to know if the need for tetanus immunization for survivors with injuries is also being taken into consideration. Question and answer archives Submit a question – Nigeria A: In emergency situations such as the South Asia tsunami where there are serious injuries, tetanus immunization has to be taken into consideration. As tetanus is a complication of wounds and injuries, it is essential that injured people receive appropriate surgical and medical care of contaminated open wounds. Open wounds must be considered as contaminated and should not be closed. Debridement and removal of dead tissue and debris is essential, and depending on the size of the wound may necessitate a surgical procedure undertaken in appropriate conditions. Wounds should be dressed with sterile dressings and the patient scheduled for delayed primary closure. Tetanus immunization is usually provided to victims of
