Survival Medicine Hour: Tetanus, Crypto, Hemostatic Agents

Most of us have dutifully gone to get a Tetanus shot when we stepped on a rusty nail, but few have any real concept of what Tetanus is and why it is dangerous. Tetanus (from the Greek word tetanos, meaning tight)  is an infection caused by the bacteria Clostridium Tetani.  The bacteria produces spores (inactive bacteria-to-be) that primarily live in the soil or the feces of animals. These spores are capable of living for years and are resistant to extremes in temperature. Tetanus is now rare in the U.S. but what if you're thrown off the grid by a disaster? Expect a resurgence of this possibly deadly infection as times goes on. Joe and Amy discuss.

An especially persistent cause of diarrheal disease from contaminated recreational waters is Cryptosporidium. Also known as “Crypto”, the organism survives for a longer time than other pathogens and is not uncommon in waterways. In high-density areas like pools, hot tubs, and water parks, Crypto is responsible for the grand majority of those made ill from contaminated water. Find out more about what it is and what you should do to stay safe from Dr. Joe Alton.

Hemostasis is just another word for bleeding control. Knowledge of the appropriate use of these agents in an emergency will increase the injured patient’s chance of survival. Despite this, few people have a reasonable supply in their medical kits, and in times of trouble, they might wish they did. Joe and Amy discuss the most popular products.

All this and more in the latest episode of the Survival Medicine Hour with Dr. Bones and Nurse Amy!

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