Outbreak of tetanus

Gray, D.; Allen, M.J.; Matthews, G.G.; Gray, D; Allen, M.J; Matthews, G.G

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Outbreak of tetanus

Gray, D.; Allen, M.J.; Matthews, G.G.

Veterinary Record 129(4): 79

1991

ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900

PMID: 1926714

Document Number: 385216

An outbreak of 'tetanic muscle spasm' in a group of 13 yearling heifers is described. Three became recumbent within 48 h of onset of limb stiffness, had extensor rigidity of all skeletal muscles and were febrile; all 3 animals died within 24 h of becoming recumbent. Their ability to eructate was unaffected and 'lockjaw' was not present to the degree that is seen in true tetanus cases. Two further animals which presented at the same time survived 9 days, ate well but remained stiff in their hind legs, despite very varied treatment.