The epidemiology of tetanus in Busoga

Abstract

During a brief period of 4 weeks in October 1974, a study was conducted about factors associated with the high frequency of TETANUS in Busoga previously reported from analysis of Jinja Hospital records. 36 cases of tetanus admitted in 4 Hospitals due to tetanus in this period were interviewed and followed up in their homes where possible. 289 mothers who delivered in the 4 Hospitals were also interviewed about their antenatal care. The number of cases of tetanus previously admitted to these Hospitals over specified periods was also unveiled by the Hospital records. And all Immunization returns against tetanus from the whole province were analysed. Results showed that the disease morbidity and mortality was higher than the average for other parts of Uganda and comparable developing countries, but the other features characteristic of tetanus i.e. affecting mainly the people in the low socio-economic status especially those involved in cultivation exist as in the rest of the world. And that low education plus lack of basic personal hygiene as illustrated by the high rate of jigger sores as well as other forms of sepsis as predesposing factors to the development of the disease were causing a big problem. The province however, proved to have a good distribution of health units and the staffing position was good compared to the rest of the country and the population especially in the group of expectant mothers is well motivated to utilize these health services. The present immunization programmes, however are not covering a good proportion of the population at risk of catching tetanus.