First-ever tetanus case reported in Grey-Bruce; child in critical condition

This Monday, Sept. 19, 2011 file photo shows an empty bottle of Tetanus, Diphthera and Pertussis, (whooping cough) vaccine at Inderkum High School in Sacramento, Calif. (Rich Pedroncelli / THE ASSOCIATED PRESS)

A child is in hospital in critical condition after being diagnosed with the first case of tetanus in the history of the Grey-Bruce Health Unit.

Tetanus infections are commonly caused through the spread of tetanus spores into cuts or other wounds.

They cannot be transmitted between people.

Common early symptoms of tetanus include jaw stiffness and muscle spasms, leading to paralysis of muscles and the central nervous system.

According to statistics provided by the health unit, Ontario averages one case of tetanus per year and about 20 per cent of people who contract tetanus will die from it.

Most young children are vaccinated against the disease through a series of shots. Boosters shots are provided to children aged 4 to 6, and children aged 14 to 16, while health officials recommend adults receive booster shots every 10 years.

The child in this case had not been vaccinated.