Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 10) — The Department of Health (DOH) on Sunday reminded self-flagellants to guard against tetanus as they practice their religious devotions this Holy Week.
“We caution penitents to sterilize the nails and other sharp objects that will be used during flagellation. Tetanus can easily be contracted with the use of unsterilized or rusty nails,” DOH Secretary Paulyn Jean B. Rosell-Ubial said.
Tetanus, or lockjaw, is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. The condition can be acquired via wounds, cuts, or lesions.
Tetanus causes severe muscle spasms, affects the brain and nervous system, and may lead to death.
The symptoms—bloody stool, diarrhea, fever, headache, and sore throat—appear about seven to 10 days from the initial infection.
Ubial said that those that indulge in these practices should also be updated with an anti-tetanus serum.
Penitents should ensure that whips, nails and other material to be used during these rites be sterilized and free from rust.
The ensuing wounds from the self-flagellation and crucifixion should also be cleaned with soap and water.
In several Philippine provinces, devotees perform crucifixion and self-flagellation as acts of penitence in the observance of Holy Week.
