Maternal tetanus: magnitude, epidemiology and potential control measures
Fauveau, V.; Mamdani, M.; Steinglass, R.; Koblinsky, M.
International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics the Official Organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics 40(1): 3-12
1993
ISSN/ISBN: 0020-7292 PMID: 8094347 DOI: 10.1016/0020-7292(93)90765-oDocument Number: 323727
Maternal tetanus, defined as tetanus occurring during pregnancy or within 6 weeks after any type of pregnancy termination, is one of the most easily preventable causes of maternal mortality. It includes postpartum or puerperal tetanus resulting from septic procedures during delivery, postabortal tetanus resulting from septic abortion and tetanus incidental to pregnancy, resulting from any type of wound during pregnancy. This review of published and unpublished hospital and community studies concludes that between 15 000 and 30 000 cases of maternal tetanus occur each year. Complete coverage of reproductive-aged women by tetanus toxoid is the most cost-effective way to eliminate this often neglected cause of maternal death.