Epidemiology of tetanus in Jamaica, 1993–2010

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although tetanus is still endemic in Jamaica, the epidemiologic profile has not been evaluated. METHODS: Admission registers at the main tertiary referral hospital were accessed to identify all patients diagnosed with tetanus from 1 January 1993 to 1 December 2010. RESULTS: There were 26 cases of tetanus (annual incidence of 0.57 cases per 1,000,000 population). Tetanus was more common in men (5.21) at a mean age of 59 ± 18.1 years. Persons in high-risk occupations (farmers, gardeners and construction workers) accounted for 52% of cases. CONCLUSION: Tetanus remains endemic in Jamaica, occurring more commonly in elderly men. Doctors should be educated about the importance of a high index of suspicion, an immunisation history and promoting booster shots in high-risk groups.