DEADLY DIPTHERIA DISEASE

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium called Corynebacterium species that affects the nose, throat, and sometimes, skin of an individual. 


As of Monday 23rd January 2023, The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 123 cases of Diphtheria disease and 38 deaths in four states which includes Kano, Lagos, Yobe, and Osun states.


Diphtheria spreads easily between people through direct contact with infected people’s droplets from coughing or sneezing, and contact with contaminated clothing and objects.


People most at risk include children and adults who have not received any dose of the pentavalent vaccine, people who live in areas with poor sanitation, people who live in a crowded environment, and healthcare workers exposed to suspected or confirmed cases of the disease.


Early signs of diphtheria which are usually spotted between 2 to 10 days of exposure to the bacteria include fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, red eyes (conjunctivitis), and neck swelling.


In severe cases, a thick grey or white patch appears on the tonsils and/or at the back of the throat associated with difficulty breathing.


Complications from diphtheria include airway blockage, damage to the heart muscle, nerve damage, and kidney failure. However, for some people, respiratory diphtheria can lead to death.


To prevent it, Nigerian

childhood immunization schedule recommends 3 doses of pentavalent vaccine (diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine) for children in the 6th, 10th, and 14th week of life. However, Poor immunization coverage can lead to a resurgence of the disease.


Diphtheria treatment involves using diphtheria antitoxin to stop the bacteria toxin from damaging the body and using antibiotics to kill and get rid of the bacteria. The treatment usually lasts for 2 to 3 weeks.


Individuals with signs and symptoms suggestive of diphtheria should isolate themselves and notify the Local Government Area authorities, state disease surveillance officer, or the NCDC through the toll-free line (6232).


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