The National Epidemiological Surveillance System (Sinave) reported that Chiapas leads the national list of tetanus cases with a total of six people affected, three men and three women, so far in 2025. The state surpasses Jalisco and Veracruz, which each have four cases, while Tabasco, Michoacán, and Hidalgo each have two, and Colima, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Puebla, Tamaulipas, and Yucatán each report only one.
According to the report for epidemiological week 32, the state has recorded six cases of this serious disease so far this year; specialists emphasized that vaccination and wound care are key to preventing it.
Origin
Tetanus is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, present in soil, dust, and animal feces.
It enters the body through deep wounds, burns, or cuts, and attacks the nervous system, causing intense muscle spasms, stiffness, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing and swallowing.
One of the most characteristic symptoms is “trismus,” or stiffness of the jaw.
Although it is not transmitted from person to person, the disease is considered serious due to its high mortality rate if not treated promptly.
A particular case is neonatal tetanus, which can affect newborns when the umbilical cord is cut or treated in unsanitary conditions.
In light of this, the Ministry of Health emphasized that the most effective form of prevention is vaccination.
The biological vaccine is included in the children’s schedule, and a booster is recommended every 10 years to maintain protection.
Furthermore, it is essential to immediately and hygienically treat any wound to prevent the bacteria from entering the body.
On the other hand, experts called for strengthening vaccination and awareness campaigns in rural and urban communities, where access to medical services and sanitary conditions can make the difference between life and death from this preventable disease.
Source: cuartopoder
