Neonatal tetanus is a notifiable disease
yy Caused by infection of the umbilicus through cutting of the
cord with unsterile instruments or from putting cow dung
or other unsuitable materials on the stump
yy Usually presents 3-14 days after birth with irritability and
difficulty in feeding due to masseter (jaw muscle) spasm,
rigidity, generalised muscle spasms. The neonate behaves
normally for the first few days before the symptoms
appear.