Clostridium tetani

Clostridium tetani is a harmless bacterium… as long as it stays outside! Present as hardy spores in soil, dust, rust, and animal feces, it simply waits for an opportunity: to enter the human body. Once inside, it wakes up and begins producing a powerful toxin responsible for the notorious tetanus disease!

Its toxin acts like that of its cousin C. botulinum… but with the opposite effect: instead of relaxing the muscles, it causes them to contract extremely ! The nervous system is disrupted and the muscles lock up.

In severe cases, sufferers may find themselves in a dramatic arched position: all muscles contracted simultaneously, with life-threatening breathing difficulties.

Fortunately, there is a simple and effective solution: the tetanus vaccine ! It is the best protection against this bacteria. If you are injured by a dirty or rusty object, or if you come into contact with the ground, it is advisable to check your vaccination status with a healthcare professional.

And to complete your collection safely? Don't miss the Clostridium tetani sticker : the only sure way to come across this bacteria! 🦠✨

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PUN: Flexing? I'll make it permanent!