Severe Generalized Tetanus in a Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) Under Human Care: A Case Report from the Republic of Congo
Veterinary sciences publish this investigation article
December 22nd, 2025
Tetanus is a life-threatening disease that causes painful muscle stiffness and sudden spasms. We present the case of a young chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) that was rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and arrived at a sanctuary with deep, dirty wounds and signs of tetanus. This included difficulty opening his mouth, a rigid posture, and spasms triggered by noise or touch, all while he remained fully conscious. The veterinary team acted immediately, cleaning and removing dead tissue from the wounds, administering an antitoxin to neutralize the toxin, starting a vaccination programme to protect him in the future, using antibiotics that work in low-oxygen environments, and controlling the spasms with calming and muscle-relaxing medication. He received gentle nursing in a quiet, dark room, assistance with breathing during spasms, careful feeding, and temporary urinary support. The spasms stopped by day five, and he had made a full recovery by eight weeks, returning to his group. This case shows that, with rapid and well-coordinated care, severe tetanus in great apes can be successfully treated, and underscores the importance of routine vaccination and proper wound care in protecting endangered wildlife
Fuertes-Recuero M., de Pablo-Moreno JA., Revuelta L., Cox D., Debenham J., Moron-Elorza P., De Pablo-Moreno J. and Atencia R.
 | Departamento de Fisiología (Fisiología Animal). Facultad de Veterinaria. Universidad Complutense (UCM). |
| Hospital Clínico Veterinario Complutense (HCVC). Universidad Complutense (UCM). |
 | Facultad de Ciencias Biomédicas y Salud. Universidad Europea de Madrid. |
| Jane Goodall Institute Congo. | |
| Norwegian School of Veterinary Science (NVH). | |
| Facultad de Farmacia. Universidad Complutense (UCM). |
 | Oceanogràfic. Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias. Generalitat Valenciana. |
| Centro de Vigilancia Sanitaria Veterinaria (VISAVET). Universidad Complutense (UCM). |
