Tetanus is not always linked to an obvious open wound. Ruminants may develop this condition after unnoticed injuries, procedures, or contaminated wounds, making early recognition essential. Never ignore changes developing.

Common signs include restlessness, stiff movement, stretching of the fore and hind legs, severe pain, muscle rigidity, and unusually wide opened eyes. These warning signs require prompt veterinary attention immediately.

Farmers sometimes confuse nervous disorders with tetanus because some signs overlap. However, they are different conditions, requiring proper examination before treatment. Avoid guessing or administering drugs without professional guidance always.

Tetanus can be prevented through appropriate vaccination, wound management, hygiene, and timely veterinary care. Do not rely only on annual PPR vaccination; discuss suitable preventive schedules for your animals regularly.

When tetanus is suspected, treatment should begin quickly under veterinary supervision. Medication, supportive care, wound management, and appropriate antitoxin may be required. Early action improves the chance of recovery significantly.

Abdullah Opeyemi Akande
B.Agric. (FUNAAB)
GAS (NIAS)
M.Sc. Animal Sci. (UI)
RAS (NIAS)
M.Sc. Int’l Business (UU, UK)
Ph.D. in view