Achieving neonatal tetanus elimination in Nigeria: undisclosed challenges and prospects.
The global initiative for neonatal tetanus elimination was launched in 1989 following the unacceptably high neonatal morbidity and mortality from tetanus. Since then tremendous progress has been made evidenced with a 94% reduction in mortality. Despite this impressive progress, two global target dates have been missed, the latest being in 2005; which led to a further target of 2015 as the global neonatal tetanus elimination date. This target date has probably been missed again as there are still 21 countries yet to be validated. Nigeria is one such country and contributes two-thirds of the burden of neonatal tetanus globally. What are the prospects and challenges of neonatal tetanus elimination in Nigeria? This paper discusses these and other relevant issues regarding neonatal tetanus elimination and sustaining clearance.
Department of Pediatrics, Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria.
Nwachinemere Davidson
ND
Uleanya
D003017:Clostridium tetani / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007226:Infant Mortality; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D009549:Nigeria / Q000453:epidemiology; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D013742:Tetanus / Q000401:mortality / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013745:Tetanus Toxoid / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014611:Vaccination
D013745:Tetanus Toxoid
Neonatal tetanus; Nigeria; challenges; neonatal tetatnus initiative; newborn care