What is Tetanus commonly referred to as?

Tetanus is commonly referred to as "Lockjaw" because one of the hallmark symptoms of the disease is the involuntary tightening of the jaw muscles, which can hinder the ability to open the mouth fully. This symptom occurs due to the effects of a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which causes muscle spasms and stiffness throughout the body. Using the term "Lockjaw" helps to convey the severity of the condition and its characteristic impact on muscle control, which is crucial for effective communication, especially in veterinary contexts.

In contrast, the other terms relate to different diseases affecting horses: "Horse flu" refers to equine influenza, which is a viral respiratory infection; "Strangles" is a bacterial infection that affects the lymph nodes of horses, leading to abscess formation and respiratory issues; and "Equine encephalitis" pertains to viral diseases that affect the horse's brain, causing neurological symptoms.