Diphtheria: Symptoms, Complications, Prevention, and Outbreaks in Pakistan"

 Diphtheria outbreak :

What is Diphtheria?

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. The disease is caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae and is spread through close personal contact or through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Diphtheria can lead to severe complications, including heart and nerve damage, and can be fatal if not treated promptly with antibiotics.

Symptoms of Diphtheria :

The symptoms of diphtheria typically appear two to five days after exposure to the bacteria. Common symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Mild fever
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• A thick, gray or white coating on the tonsils, pharynx, or nose
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

Complications of Diphtheria

Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure.

Neuropathy: Nerve damage, which can cause weakness, paralysis, or loss of sensation in the affected area.

Airway obstruction: The thick coating in the throat can block the airway, making it difficult to breathe.

Nephritis: Inflammation of the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.

Septicemia: Bacteria in the bloodstream, which can lead to sepsis and septic shock.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Diphtheria

Diagnosis of diphtheria is typically made based on the presence of characteristic symptoms and a positive result on a laboratory test, such as a culture of the bacteria from a throat swab.

Treatment of diphtheria typically involves a combination of antibiotics and supportive care. Antibiotics, such as penicillin or erythromycin, are used to kill the bacteria and prevent further spread of the infection. Supportive care may include oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation, and intravenous fluids to help manage complications.

Diphtheria Vaccine

Prevention of diphtheria is primarily achieved through vaccination. The diphtheria vaccine is typically given as part of a combination vaccine, such as the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) or Td (tetanus and diphtheria) vaccine. These vaccines are usually given as a series of shots in childhood, with booster doses recommended every 10 years.

Common outbreak in Pakistan

Pakistan is considered as one of the high-risk countries for diphtheria, with a high number of reported cases in recent years. The main reason for the high number of cases is the low vaccination coverage, poor sanitation and lack of awareness about the disease.

In 2019, Pakistan reported a total of 8,103 cases of diphtheria, with a majority of the cases coming from the Sindh province. The number of reported cases has decreased in 2020, but it is still considered a public health concern in the country.

Prevention and Control Measures

To prevent and control the spread of diphtheria in Pakistan, the following measures are recommended:

Increasing vaccination coverage: One of the most effective ways to prevent diphtheria is through vaccination. The government of Pakistan should make sure that all children are fully vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.

Improving sanitation: Poor sanitation can contribute to the spread of diphtheria. The government should work to improve sanitation conditions in affected areas, including providing access to clean water and proper waste management.

Raising awareness: Lack of awareness about diphtheria can contribute to the complications and increase risk of infection.