Taming Tetanus

In step with wartime medical advances, the Hygiene Department has announced that it has on hand a new toxoid which is designed to fight tetanus without causing the serious reactions which often arise. If the serum is taken in advance and again after an injury, much time may be saved in administering it to allergic people, who otherwise could only be given the ordinary toxin very slowly and with considerable danger. Naturally this discovery can play an important role in bomb-threatened regions, where many injuries might require immediate attention. But under ordinary circumstances it also can accomplish much, since an estimated forty per cent of all people have reactions to anti-tetanus injections.

All men in the Army and Navy are given it, and in New York State the Public Health Department has requested physicians to administer the toxoid to as many civilians as will comply. Already the nurses and staff of Stillman Infirmary have taken it in preparation for the emergencies which may arise.

This is a health measure of great importance in the crowded University area, and the Hygiene Department has been quick to put it at the disposal of war conscious students. It is prepared to give the three precautionary injections necessary to any student wishing them. Here is an opportunity for anyone unsure of his reaction to anti-tetanus to play safe and avoid the possibility of later difficulties.