title: Elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus: a 21st-century challenge.
abstract: Tetanus is an acute disease manifested by motor system and autonomic nervous system instability. Maternal and neonatal tetanus occur where deliveries are performed under unsanitary circumstances and unhygienic umbilical cord practices are prevalent. Neonatal tetanus is almost always fatal in the absence of medical care. These deaths can be prevented with changes in traditional obstetrical practices and maternal immunization. This situation led to the development of the Maternal and Neonatal Elimination Initiative by the World Health Organization. Using a three-pronged approach, tetanus can be eliminated via promotion of hygienic practices during delivery, maternal and childhood immunization, and close surveillance.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.
authors.forename: Sharon
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Owusu-Darko
authors.forename: Khady
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Diouf
authors.forename: Nawal M
authors.initials: NM
authors.lastname: Nour
keywords: MNT initiative; Maternal and neonatal mortality; Tetanus