Kyrgyzstan: Doctors Warn of Tetanus Risk from Barefoot Walking and Foot Injuries

Medical experts in Bishkek are highlighting the risks of tetanus infection, particularly emphasizing that approximately 60 percent of cases stem from foot injuries. Specialists at the Bishkek Center for Health Promotion warn that simple acts like walking barefoot or stepping on nails, thorns, or splinters can lead to the dangerous disease.

Tetanus, caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, severely impacts the nervous system, leading to intense muscle spasms. The incubation period typically ranges from 5 to 14 days but can extend up to 30 days, with shorter incubation times often correlating with more severe illness. The spores of Clostridium tetani are ubiquitous, found in soil, household dust, animal excrement, and natural water bodies.

While ingestion of these spores does not cause illness as they are not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, they pose a significant threat when entering the body through broken skin. Tetanus is not contagious from person to person; infection occurs solely through contaminated wounds, especially deep or puncture wounds. The disease ranks second only to rabies in mortality rates among infectious diseases.

To protect against tetanus, medical professionals advise timely vaccination, diligent prevention of injuries, and prompt, correct treatment of any wounds. These measures are crucial in mitigating the risk of this potentially fatal infection.