Prevention of neonatal tetanus: Much preached, less practiced!

Abstract

Nigerian family with two consecutive perinatal deaths from neonatal tetanus is reported. The important role of missed opportunities in the failure of immunization programmes and the persistence of neonatal tetanus in the developing world is highlighted. Other important factors are also emphasised in order to reawaken a need for concerted effort towards the elimination of the disease.

Keywords: immunization; missed opportunities; neonatal tetanus

Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol. 50 (2) 2006: pp 39-41