Any infection of the nervous system is potentially serious and, not uncommonly, may prove fatal. Major infections include tetanus, encephalitis, meningitis, poliomyelitis, and rabies. Tetanus, or lockjaw, is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, an inhabitant of soil and feces- hence the danger of dirty wounds. Muscle spasms and convulsions highlight the infection. Unless tetanus antitoxin is given immediately, the outlook is grim; even with only a 24 hour delay a person's chances are no better than 50-50. Actually, no one need die of tetanus: vaccination is 100% effective.

Poliomyelitis is an acute viral infection of the central nervous system. Somewhat contrary to popular belief, relatively few of those affected develop significant signs and symptoms. These include, in a full blown infection, fever, headache, stiffness, and paralysis. Less than one quarter of those who develop paralysis sustain permanent disability. Death can occur as a result of respiratory failure. Vaccination has proved extremely effective in the prevention of polio, and the oral vaccine is recommended for all infants and children.

Rabies is a viral involvement of the brain, is the most deadly infection known to mankind. The virus- present in the saliva of rabid animals- enters the body via bites, scratches, and sometimes licks. High lights of infection include fanatic excitement, painful muscle spasms, and paralysis. Prevention and control of rabies demands a wide approach:

1. Dog restraint
2. Immunization of dogs an cats
3. Sytematic reduction of skunks, foxes, racoons, and bats in high risk areas
4. Immediate soap and water cleansing of all lacerations or wound inflicted by dogs, cats, and wild animals
5. Immediate vaccination in high risk situations, such as in cases of wild animal bite

Encephalitis,or inflammation of the brain encompasses hundreds of viral infections throughout the world.

Meningitis, is caused by many species or bacteria and a variety of viruses. Antibiotics have greatly reduced the fatality rate of acute bacterial meningitis, but they must be given without delay.