The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that Diphtheria is on the rise. This is a concerning matter as Diphtheria is an infectious disease, caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium Diphtheriae, and can lead to severe complications if not promptly treated.
According to WHO, diphtheria is reportedly fatal in 5-10% of the cases, especially in young children. Hence, it becomes crucial that we are aware of the symptoms and risk factors associated with diphtheria for early diagnosis and effective management.
What is Diphtheria?
The Centres for Disease Control & Prevention defines Diphtheria as a bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, although it can also involve the skin. It spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person or contact with contaminated objects. The bacteria produce a toxin that can cause damage to the heart, nerves, and kidneys if left untreated.
Here are the symptoms of Diphtheria:
- Sore Throat: The initial symptom is often a sore throat, which can be mild at first but progressively worsens.
- Fever: Patients may experience a low-grade fever, usually accompanied by general fatigue and weakness.
- Swollen Neck Glands: Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, known as swollen neck glands or lymphadenopathy, are common in diphtheria.
- Difficulty Breathing: As the infection progresses, breathing difficulties may arise due to airway obstruction caused by the formation of a thick, greyish membrane in the throat.
- Hoarseness or Loss of Voice: Vocal changes, such as hoarseness or complete loss of voice, can occur due to the membrane affecting the vocal cords.
- Skin Lesions: In cutaneous diphtheria, skin lesions or ulcers may develop at the site of bacterial entry, often seen in tropical regions.
It's crucial to note that diphtheria can mimic common respiratory infections initially, making it challenging to diagnose without specific tests.
Also Read: Douching Is Not Necessary For Vaginal Hygiene: 5 Expert-Recommended Tips To Follow Instead
Diphtheria Risk Factors & Treatment
Several factors increase the risk of diphtheria. Understanding these risk factors can help you prevent this dangerous disease and stay safe:
- Incomplete Vaccination: Not being fully vaccinated against diphtheria increases the risk of infection, especially in regions with low vaccination coverage.
- Poor Hygiene Practices: Living in crowded or unsanitary conditions can facilitate the spread of the diphtheria bacteria.
- Travel to Endemic Areas: Traveling to areas where diphtheria is prevalent increases the risk of exposure.
- Age: Children and older adults are more susceptible to severe diphtheria infections.
- Immunocompromised Conditions: Individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of developing severe diphtheria and its complications.
The tricky thing about infectious diseases is that they are caused by pathogens that are invisible to the naked eye. So lifestyle practices as a measure of prevention can only take you so far. Hence, it is crucial that you also get vaccinated. The diphtheria vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection. It is often administered as part of the DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) vaccine series in childhood, with booster doses recommended periodically.
Regardless, you should always practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. This can help prevent many infectious diseases. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics and antitoxin are equally essential to prevent complications and reduce mortality rates due to Dipthera. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritise preventive measures to combat the rise of diphtheria cases worldwide.