1. Tetanus By. Angus Thomson

2. Cause The bacterium Clostridium tetani Often fond in rusty places because rust is a prime habitat for a C. tetani endospore to reside on The bacterium can be found in two forms, as a spore (dormant) or as a vegetative cell (active) that can multiply. a contamination with the tetanus spore is the most common type of contamination, however the disease can only occur when the bacterium germinate and become active

3. symptoms Mild spasms in the jaw Trouble swallowing muscle cramps Severe cases show spasms of vocal chords and the respiratory muscles

4. treatment Antibiotics (ex. penicillin G) Cleanse the wound pain medication (if needed) Ventilator to help with breathing if spasms occur in vocal cords or respiratory muscles

5. pictures (bottom) picture of C. tetani spore form (top) an infant suffering from neonatal tetanus.

6. prevention Prevented by active immunization Taking the TDP shot at two months old Receiving the booster shot every 10 years after that

7. references www.emedicinehealth.com www.wikipedia.com www.worldbookonline.com