[Accidental tetanus in the State of Ceará, between 2002 and 2005]

The demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals with accidental tetanus in Ceará are described. This was retrospective analysis of 131 cases of accidental tetanus notified in a state referral hospital between 2002 and 2005. Most of these cases (84.8%) occurred among men and among people living in the urban zone (93.2%). The age group with highest incidence was between 35 and 49 years old (35.2%). A complete vaccination history was reported in four (3%) cases. Puncturing/cutting wounds were the cause most commonly observed and the legs were the area most affected. Trismus (lockjaw) was reported in 86.2% of the cases, followed by muscle contractions (54.1%). Among the notified cases, 95.5% were confirmed and 33 patients (26.4%) died. We conclude that accidental tetanus in Ceará significantly affects the population, in spite of being a disease that is preventable by immunization. The health authorities and health administration entities are urged to program strategies that aim towards changes in public policies concerning the vaccination coverage for susceptible individuals, particularly adults.