Table 2.

Ablett Classification of the Severity of Tetanus [16]

Grade	Severity	Clinical features
I	Mild	Mild to moderate trismus; general spasticity; no respiratory embarrassment; no spasms; little or no dysphagia
II	Moderate	Moderate trismus; well-marked rigidity; mild to moderate but short spasms; moderate respiratory embarrassment with an increased respiratory rate > 30, mild dysphagia
III	Severe	Severe trismus; generalized spasticity; reflex prolonged spasms; respiratory rate > 40; apnoeic spells, severe dysphagia; tachycardia > 120
IV	Very severe	Grade III and violent autonomic disturbances involving the cardiovascular system. Severe hypertension and tachycardia alternating with relative hypotension and bradycardia, either of which may be persistent.