Diphtheria

Disease and transmission – Diphtheria is an extremely infectious bacterial disease. The main areas affected are the throat and nose, known as respiratory diphtheria, or cutaneous diphtheria which affects the skin.   The respiratory version is caught by droplet spread through coughs and sneezes, or by being in close proximity to an infected person. Cutaneous diphtheria is contracted by contact with discharging skin ulcers.

Symptoms – Cough, hoarse voice, sore throat, difficultly swallowing and a high fever. A yellow/grey layer of dead skin can develop over the throat, blocking the airway. Lymph nodes can become enlarged and tender, particularly noticeable around the neck. Cutaneous diphtheria causes non healing painful ulcers. Diphtheria bacteria can also produce a toxin which affects other body systems and can cause death but severe illness is not common.

Prevention – Avoid contact with those who may have diptheria and practice good respiratory and hand hygiene. Some diphtheria can spread from animals to humans so avoid raw dairy products and close contact with farm animals. There is a very effective vaccine available. Most UK citizens will have had 5 vaccines by time they leave school. If required then the vaccine should be boosted every 10 years (the vaccine is also mixed with tetanus and poliomyelitis as well). This vaccine is available via the NHS.

Treatment – Both types of diphtheria can be treated with antibiotics. Treatment can last three weeks but ulcers can take months to heal and may scar. If breathing problems develop attend hospital. An antitoxin may be needed to stop the toxin produced from damaging other body systems.

Further information https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/disease/210/diphtheria