Diphtheria is a serious and potentially deadly disease that requires early detection for effective treatment. Diphtheria is highly contagious and can spread rapidly within communities. There has been a recent outbreak of diphtheria cases in Dak Nong and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with severe consequences.
1 Signs and Symptoms of Diphtheria
Signs and Symptoms of Diphtheria
The incubation period for diphtheria can range from 2 to 5 days or even longer. Symptoms of diphtheria can often be mistaken for a common cold, sore throat, laryngitis, tonsillitis, or skin infection.
Characteristic symptoms of diphtheria include:
- High fever and irregular heartbeat.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Chills.
- A distinctive cough, often described as a “barking cough.”
- Pale or bluish skin.
- Sore throat, swollen throat, and excessive drooling.
- Anxiety and restlessness.
The most distinctive and namesake sign of diphtheria is the formation of a thick, grayish-white patch on the throat, which can turn black or gray and may bleed easily.
According to doctors at Vinmec International Hospital:
Diphtheria can be particularly dangerous because some infected individuals may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. Unaware of their infection, they can become carriers and spread the disease to others in the community.
For those with cutaneous diphtheria, the infected area of the skin will turn red, swell, and develop pus-filled sores.
2 Causes of Diphtheria
Diphtheria is caused by the bacteria Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which is highly contagious. It is classified as a Group B infectious disease under the Law on Infectious Disease Prevention. According to the Department of Preventive Medicine, children under 15 years of age are particularly susceptible to diphtheria due to their underdeveloped immune systems, making it easier for the bacteria to invade their bodies.
Additionally, several other factors can increase the risk of contracting diphtheria:
- Inadequate immunization or failure to complete the full course of vaccinations.
- Immune system disorders such as HIV/AIDS.
- Living in unsanitary and poorly ventilated environments.
- Traveling to countries without established vaccination programs.
3 Modes of Transmission
According to the doctors at Vinmec International Hospital:
Diphtheria can be transmitted from an infected person, whether symptomatic or not, to a healthy individual through respiratory droplets. It typically takes about two weeks for symptoms to appear in infected individuals.
The disease can also be contracted by coming into contact with objects contaminated by the bacteria, such as toys and other shared items.
Furthermore, open wounds that come into contact with the bacteria can lead to cutaneous diphtheria.
4 Prevention of Diphtheria
To prevent the spread of diphtheria, it is essential to:
- Stay informed about the disease to facilitate early detection and response.
- Ensure proper vaccination with the recommended number of doses through national immunization programs.
- Maintain good hygiene and sanitation practices in homes, schools, and children’s play areas. Keep living spaces well-ventilated and illuminated.
- In the event of an outbreak, implement quarantine measures and conduct focused testing in the affected area.
- Provide truthful and comprehensive epidemiological information to health authorities.
For reference:
To improve the effectiveness of diphtheria treatment, it is crucial to seek medical attention at the nearest healthcare facility if any symptoms indicative of the disease are observed.
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