Fiona Poole

Tetanus is an infectious condition triggered by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. When this bacterium infiltrates the body, it releases a toxin leading to severe muscle spasms. Commonly known as “lockjaw,” tetanus often results in the stiffening of neck and jaw muscles, making it difficult to open the mouth or swallow. More than two centuries ago, people mistakenly believed tetanus to be a form of demonic possession due to the abrupt muscle contractions and rigidity experienced by those affected. Nowadays, it's understood that tetanus is a bacterial infection impacting the nervous system. The distinctive posture associated with this disease is termed opisthotonos.