Tetanus Decontamination

Animals need to be bathed with copious amounts of soap and water. If dermal decontamination is not implemented quickly, mustard will react with the skin and cannot be easily removed (Sidell et al, 1997). Sodium thiosulfate (2.5% solution) can be used dermally to neutralize mustard exposures (Garigan, 1996). Animals may also be bathed with dilute (0.5%) hypochlorite solutions (Borak and Sidell, 1992). Monitor for dermal bums. Secondary infection is common. Topical silver sulfadiazine can be applied to all bums and an Ehzabethan collar placed to decrease ingestion of the ointment and self trauma. Topically applied dexa-methasone and diclofenac reduced inflammation in a mouse model when applied within 4 h (Dachir et al, 2004). All equine and ovine patients should be inoculated with tetanus toxoid. Vaccination of other species should be determined on a case by case basis. 

The animal should be bathed with copious amounts of water and a mild soap. Phosgene oxime reacts quickly with tissue and decontamination is not expected to be entirely effective after pain has been produced. Sodium hypochlorite (0.5%) or isotonic sodium bicarbonate can help neutralize phosgene oxime that has not yet reacted with tissue. Bums should be managed with topical silver sulfadiazine and systemic antibiotics as needed (Roberts, 1988). Horses and sheep should receive tetanus prophylaxis. Other species should be vaccinated on a case by case basis. 

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